Former Head of State Yakubu Gowon’s autobiography raised ₦3.525 billion in pledges at its public presentation in Abuja on Tuesday with former Defence Minister Theophilus Danjuma making the single largest donation.
Danjuma pledged ₦3 billion and directed that copies of the book be distributed to libraries at 20 universities that have awarded Gowon honorary doctorates.
He was represented at the event by former Chief of Defence Staff Martin Luther Agwai.
Businessman Aliko Dangote pledged ₦500 million through the purchase of 25 copies, while BUA Group chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu donated ₦25 million, also through book purchases.
The memoir, titled – My Life of Duty and Allegiance- was unveiled at a ceremony attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu.
The event drew government officials, diplomats, and senior military officers.
Reviewing the book, Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah said it offered significant historical and national insight.
In a tribute read on his behalf, Danjuma described Gowon as a statesman whose leadership during the Nigerian Civil War preserved national unity. He cited Gowon’s “no victor, no vanquished” policy as foundational to post-war reconciliation and rebuilding.
Representing Dangote, Mansur Ahmed said the donation recognized Gowon’s role in stabilizing Nigeria during a critical period, adding that the former leader’s tenure created the environment for future generations to build successful enterprises.
Speakers at the event described the memoir as an important historical record and contribution to Nigeria’s national narrative.
