Gowon Calls for Unity, Integrity, Forgiveness.

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated that the Nigerian Civil War was not driven by hatred but was a difficult necessity aimed at preserving the unity of the nation.

Speaking in Abuja at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) of the Diocese of Abuja, held at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Gowon emphasized the need for forgiveness, reconciliation, and national cohesion across religious and ethnic divides.

Reflecting on his leadership during the civil war, Gowon shared that it was a deeply painful time in his life. “It was not my choice, but I had to do what I had to do to keep this country together,” he said after receiving a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award.

He clarified that his actions were not driven by animosity. “There was no hatred against any group. Rather, there was mutual respect and love,” he affirmed.

Now 91, Gowon also recalled personal losses during the conflict, including the death of his friend Major Arthur Unegbe. He said prayer has always guided his decisions, stressing, “I ask God to help me do what is right, with love and respect for all.” He added, “That is why we say: no victor, no vanquished.”

Gowon commended Nigeria’s progress since the war and called for collective efforts to sustain peace. “Let us continue to unite and live as one people, regardless of faith—Christian, Muslim, or otherwise,” he urged. He called for continued prayers for Nigeria’s unity.

Alongside Gowon, two other eminent Nigerians—Dr. Christopher Kolade, 93, a revered diplomat and broadcaster, and Owelle Gilbert Chikelu, CON, 95, a former federal permanent secretary known for his pioneering role in civil service—were honoured for their service to the Church and the nation.

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, who led the convention, encouraged Christian men to embody truth, integrity, and courage. He referenced the “four Hs” – heart, head, habit, and humility – as key traits of godly men.

Mrs. Angela Ndukuba, President of the Mothers’ Union and Women’s Guild, praised the honourees as enduring role models of courage and honour in a morally challenging era.

Prof. John-Kennedy Opara, in a tribute on behalf of former President Goodluck Jonathan, lauded the men’s enduring integrity, quoting Psalm 25:14. Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, former TETFund executive secretary, described Gowon as a model of humility who left office without personal wealth, noting, “He didn’t even build a house for himself.”

The CMF convention themed “Men of Honour: Living with Integrity in a Culture of Deceit” (Psalm 15:1-5), brought Christian men together to reflect on honourable living. Guest speaker was Rt. Rev. Prof. Dapo Asaju, Bishop of Ilesa.