Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has said that the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, was not a personal decision, but a painful necessity taken in the interest of preserving the country’s unity.
Gowon made the statement on Saturday, June 7, 2025, during the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship of the Abuja Anglican Diocese, where he was honoured with a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award.
Describing the war as the most difficult chapter of his life, the 89-year-old elder statesman said he had no choice but to lead Nigeria through the bloody conflict, which lasted from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970.
“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life. It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together. It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you,” Gowon stated.
The former military ruler emphasised that the war effort was rooted in a duty to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and not driven by personal animosity toward the secessionist Eastern region.
Reflecting on his years in leadership, Gowon stressed that his decisions were grounded in prayer, integrity, and a deep desire to act in the nation’s best interest.
“Everything I do is through prayers. I ask God to help me do the right thing, the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people,” he said.
He also reiterated the famous post-war message of reconciliation, noting:
“That is why, at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”
Since leaving office in 1975, Gowon has continued to advocate for peace and national unity. His latest remarks come amid ongoing conversations around Biafra remembrance and calls for deeper healing across ethnic and regional lines in Nigeria.