Former Nigerian military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has made a candid revelation about his time in power, admitting that he was not prepared to lead the country when he assumed office.
Gowon, who ruled Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, disclosed this during an interview with Arise Television on Wednesday. He became Nigeria’s leader at the age of 31, following the assassination of Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.
“I was 31 going to 32, and I had a good upbringing from home, school, and military training. I was brought up in a very strict religious environment, so I felt bad because I was not prepared to rule Nigeria,” he said.
The former leader, who steered the nation through the bloody Biafra civil war (1967–1970), emphasized that although he lacked prior training in governance, his personal discipline and values shaped his leadership style.
“I was loyal to my country and the Head of State. I was not trained to rule, but my upbringing helped me to learn how to deal with situations the best way you can. But of course, you can’t do it alone. You have other people around you,” Gowon added.
Gowon’s regime ended in a bloodless coup on July 29, 1975, while he was attending an Organisation of African Unity (OAU) summit in Kampala, Uganda. He was succeeded by General Murtala Mohammed.
His remarks have stirred fresh conversations on the challenges of military rule and the preparedness of leaders in times of national crisis.
