Obasanjo Eager to Read Gowon's Memoir Despite Absence

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed his eagerness to read the newly released memoir of former military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon (retd). The memoir, which was unveiled on May 19, 2026, details Gowon's contributions to Nigeria's socio-economic development and chronicles significant events during his leadership from August 1966 to July 1975, including the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.

Obasanjo, who served as Army Chief of Staff under General Murtala Muhammed during Gowon's government, explained his absence from the book presentation in Abuja due to prior commitments as co-chair of an international council meeting scheduled in Hong Kong on the same date. He conveyed his regrets in a heartfelt letter dated May 4, 2026, apologizing for not being able to attend the event and acknowledging Gowon's significant role in Nigeria's history.