Is General Yakubu Gowon Dead or Alive? Who is Yakubu Gowon?
by Rubaditsha
Updated Oct 10, 2023
Who is Yakubu Gowon?
Yakubu Dan-Yumma "Jack" Gowon, is a retired Nigerian army general and a prominent figure in Nigeria's history. He served as the head of state of Nigeria and played a central role in a highly contentious period, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War. Gowon famously delivered the "no victor, no vanquished" speech at the end of the war, aiming to promote healing and reconciliation in a conflict that is regarded as one of the deadliest in modern history.
However, his leadership during this time has also been a subject of controversy, with accusations of crimes against humanity and genocide. Hailing from a minority Ngas family in Northern Nigeria, Gowon is known as a Nigerian nationalist who strongly believes in the unity and oneness of the country. His ascent to power came after the July 1966 counter-coup, solidifying military rule in Nigeria.
He held the position of head of state for an extended period, ruling for nearly nine years until he was overthrown in the 1975 coup led by Brigadier Murtala Mohammed. Throughout his career, Gowon has maintained his innocence regarding any wrongdoing during the Nigerian Civil War, asserting that his leadership ultimately saved the nation.
Honorary Doctorate Degrees from various universities
International Peace Mediator Award
Leadership Award by ECOWAS
Full Name
Yakubu Gowon
Date of Birth
October 19, 1934
Place of Birth
Pankshin, Plateau State, Nigeria
Nationality
Nigerian
Spouse
Victoria Zakari Gowon
Position
Head of State of Nigeria (1966-1975)
Awards
Is General Yakubu Gowon Dead or Alive?
General Yakubu Gowon is alive and well, refuting recent speculations about his death. These rumors emerged on social media, suggesting that he had passed away at the age of 89. However, General Gowon himself confirmed his status, stating that he is alive and in good health during a telephone conversation with Vanguard newspaper.
Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, who has close ties with General Gowon, also dismissed the rumors, asserting that the war hero is alive and currently in London. Gbagi emphasized that he had recently spoken with General Gowon and that there was no basis for believing the false reports about his death.
It's important to note that the confusion may have arisen due to the passing of another individual with a similar name, Professor Samuel Gowon Edoumiekumo, but General Yakubu Gowon is indeed alive and not deceased.
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Yakubu Gowon Early Life
Yakubu Gowon hails from the Ngas (Angas) ethnic group and was born in Lur, a small village located in the present Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. His parents, Nde Yohanna and Matwok Kurnyang, were missionaries for the Church Missionary Society (CMS) and moved to Wusasa, Zaria when Gowon was quite young.
Interestingly, his father's wedding date on April 26, 1923, coincided with the wedding of Prince Albert and Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who later became King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother).
Gowon was the fifth of eleven children in his family and spent his formative years in Zaria, where he received his early education. During his time in school, Gowon displayed remarkable athletic prowess. He excelled as the school's football goalkeeper, pole vaulter, and long-distance runner, even setting a new school mile record in his first year. Additionally, he served as the boxing team captain, showcasing his versatility and leadership skills during his early years.
Yakubu Gowon Career
Gowon's military journey commenced in 1954 when he joined the Nigerian Army. On his 21st birthday, which was October 19, 1955, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant, marking a significant milestone in his career. His military education took him to prestigious institutions, including the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, where he honed his skills from 1955 to 1956. He furthered his training at the Staff College in Camberley, UK, in 1962 and attended the Joint Staff College in Latimer in 1965.
Gowon's military service also included active participation in the Congo as part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force during two separate missions, first in 1960-61 and then again in 1963. Despite his relatively young age, he rose through the ranks swiftly, achieving the position of battalion commander by 1966 when he still held the rank of lieutenant colonel. This rapid advancement in his military career showcased his competence and dedication to his role.
Yakubu Gowon Religion
Yakubu Gowon, born into a minority Ngas family in Northern Nigeria, practices Anglican Christianity. He is known for his strong commitment to the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria and is considered a staunch Nigerian nationalist. Gowon firmly believes in the idea that Nigeria should remain a unified and cohesive nation.
His dedication to preserving the country's oneness has been a central theme throughout his life and career, influencing his actions as a military leader and statesman. Gowon's unwavering belief in Nigeria's unity has shaped his approach to governance and his contributions to the nation's history.
Yakubu Gowon News
Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, expressed optimism that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund bill, which he founded, is on track to receive Presidential Assent. This bill is expected to establish a trust fund that will support Corps members in starting their own businesses, enhancing facilities at Orientation Camps, and improving skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.
General Gowon shared his positive outlook during a courtesy visit by NYSC Director General Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed and the Scheme's management staff. He congratulated General Ahmed on his appointment as the twenty-second Chief Executive of the NYSC and encouraged him to lead inclusively, building upon the legacies of his predecessors.
Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed affirmed his commitment to continuing the valuable work of the NYSC, building on the foundation laid by its founding fathers. This news reflects General Gowon's ongoing involvement in the development and enhancement of the NYSC, which plays a crucial role in fostering unity and national integration in Nigeria.
Is General Yakubu Gowon Dead or Alive:FAQs
General Yakubu Gowon is a retired Nigerian army general and former Head of State of Nigeria. He is also the founder of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The NYSC Trust Fund Bill is a proposed legislation aimed at establishing a trust fund to provide financial support to NYSC Corps members. The fund will help them st art businesses, improve camp facilities, and enhance skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.
General Gowon is optimistic about the bill because he believes it will soon receive Presidential Assent, which would allow the establishment of the trust fund and its benefits for Corps members.
General Gowon advises General Ahmed to adopt an all-inclusive style of leadership and to strive to leave a positive legacy during his tenure as the Chief Executive of the NYSC.
The NYSC plays a crucial role in fostering unity and national integration in Nigeria by mobilizing young graduates from different parts of the country to serve in various regions, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.