Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed strong interest in the Gowon memoir titled My Life of Duty and Allegiance. The former leader described the publication as a valuable addition to Nigeria’s historical documentation and said he looks forward to reading it in full.
Obasanjo made the comments while speaking with journalists at his residence. He was responding to questions about whether he had accessed the newly released memoir, which was officially presented to the public in Abuja on May 19, 2026. The book launch attracted attention from political and military figures across Nigeria.
“I am anxious to get a copy,” the former President said.
The Gowon memoir chronicles the life and leadership journey of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon. It reflects on Nigeria’s political evolution, military governance, and major historical events since independence. The publication has been widely discussed among political observers due to Gowon’s central role in shaping Nigeria’s post-independence era.
Obasanjo praised Gowon’s decision to document his experiences, describing it as a courageous contribution to national history. He noted that the memoir offers insights into some of the most turbulent periods in Nigeria’s development.
“General Gowon has spanned the most turbulent and eventful part of Nigerian history since independence. Giving us his account of events is very important, and he must be appreciated for the courage to do that,” Obasanjo stated.
The former President also addressed his absence from the book presentation event in Abuja. Despite his long-standing relationship with Gowon, he said prior international commitments prevented his attendance at the ceremony.
“I wrote a heartfelt letter of apologies to General Gowon, my Oga, for my inability to attend,” he said.
Obasanjo explained that his schedule coincided with a planned meeting of the InterAction Council, where he serves as Co-chair. The meeting, scheduled to take place in Hong Kong, overlapped with the date of the book launch.
In a formal apology letter dated May 4, 2026, he stated that the commitment could not be postponed due to its importance and timing.
“I will be unable to attend. As the Co-chair of the InterAction Council, I have a longstanding obligation to attend a scheduled meeting of the Council in Hong Kong, which coincides with the date, May 19, 2026, of your book presentation,” the former President wrote.
He further added that the obligation was not easily deferrable, emphasizing the seriousness of his international responsibilities.
“As a fellow patriot, you will understand that this commitment is one I cannot easily defer,” he added.
The Gowon memoir, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, details General Yakubu Gowon’s military career, leadership decisions, and reflections on key national events. The book adds to the growing body of autobiographical works by Nigerian statesmen documenting the country’s post-independence journey.
Obasanjo’s remarks highlight continued elite interest in historical documentation and leadership reflection in Nigeria. The attention given to the Gowon memoir also reflects the enduring relevance of first-hand accounts in shaping public understanding of Nigeria’s political history.
