Former Nigerian Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has identified the Biafra civil war as the "most painful episode in Nigeria's history" while reflecting on the complex legacy of military governance in the country.

Speaking at an event in Abuja on Wednesday, Gowon, who led Nigeria during the civil war from 1967 to 1970, offered a nuanced assessment of military rule's impact on Nigeria's development.

"On one hand, the military preserved national unity during the civil war," Gowon stated. "We built infrastructure, created states to bring the government closer to the people, and at times restored order when civilian structures faltered."

However, the former Head of State acknowledged the negative consequences of military interventions in governance. "On the other hand, I must acknowledge that military rule stifled democratic development, sometimes violated civil liberties, and created structures that enabled corruption," he admitted.

Despite these shortcomings, Gowon expressed optimism about the future role of Nigeria's military in supporting democratic governance. He emphasized that a technologically sophisticated and intelligence-driven military would be more effective in addressing the country's current security challenges.

The 90-year-old former leader also highlighted the military's contributions to peace and economic development in Nigeria, suggesting that these positive aspects should be recognized alongside the institution's more controversial legacy.

Gowon's remarks come amid ongoing discussions about Nigeria's historical narrative and the continued relevance of the Biafra conflict in contemporary national discourse. His acknowledgment of the civil war as a painful chapter represents a significant reflection from one of the key figures who shaped that period of Nigerian history.