ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated that while Nigeria’s military has played significant roles in the country’s history, the era of military governance must remain firmly in the past.
He made the remarks on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Abuja at the unveiling of the book “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960–2018” published by the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) to mark its 70th anniversary.
Gowon, who chaired the occasion, acknowledged both the military’s contributions and its limitations, noting that although military regimes helped preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity and implemented key infrastructure projects, they also disrupted democratic growth and enabled authoritarian practices.
“The era of military governance is and must remain behind us. Democracy, despite its imperfections, provides the best framework for national development and popular participation,” Gowon said.
He added that the Nigerian armed forces should now fully embrace their constitutional mandate as protectors of national sovereignty, not political actors.
“The military must be an essential component of the national fabric, working in tandem with civilian institutions,” he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s civil war, Gowon described it as the nation’s most painful chapter but noted it reaffirmed the country’s commitment to unity.
He warned that national development must involve a military that is intelligence-driven, technologically sophisticated, and more integrated with civil society.
While acknowledging the military’s role in regional peacekeeping, infrastructure development, and stabilisation during moments of civilian crisis, Gowon also highlighted its darker legacy.
“We must confront honestly the interruption of our democratic journey in 1966, 1983, and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections,” he said.
“By acknowledging these mistakes, we pave the way for a brighter, more democratic future.”
In his keynote address, retired General Lucky Irabor, former Chief of Defence Staff, echoed Gowon’s sentiments, highlighting the military’s dual legacy.
He noted that military regimes contributed positively through developmental efforts such as road construction, peacekeeping missions, and the establishment of national institutions like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
“The military’s participation in peace enforcement across Africa has enhanced Nigeria’s global standing,” Irabor said.
“But issues of human rights and the suppression of public freedoms during military regimes remain subjects of serious scrutiny.”
He praised the publication of the book, stating that it offered an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s past and set a direction for the future.
“It will inspire dialogue, debate, and deeper inquiry into the military’s role in shaping Nigeria’s development,” he said.
Reviewing the 598-page book, Professor Patrick Ukase described it as a “well-researched, comprehensive examination” of the military’s multifaceted role in post-colonial Nigeria.
Organised into 27 chapters across six thematic areas, the book provides a critical analysis of how military governance influenced the nation’s political, economic, and social development.
“It is a vital resource recommended for the Nigerian military, security forces, policymakers, students, and scholars,” Ukase said.
Professor Zara Kwaghe, Acting President of the Historical Society of Nigeria, said the idea for the book was conceived during the society’s 2024 annual conference.
She called on Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces, while urging the military to remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation.
“The military has been strategic in keeping the country together. Let us continue to support them as they support Nigeria’s peace and development,” she said.
