Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that he had no formal training in governance when he unexpectedly assumed leadership of Nigeria following the July 1966 counter-coup.
Speaking during an interview with Arise News on Wednesday, Gowon explained that he relied heavily on his upbringing and military training to navigate the turbulent period that followed the assassination of General Aguiyi-Ironsi.
"I was not trained to rule, but at least, given sufficient upbringing to be able to deal with the situation the best way you can," Gowon stated, reflecting on the challenging circumstances that thrust him into power.
Military Training as Foundation for Leadership
The former military leader credited his British military education, particularly his time at the Staff College in Benin, as instrumental in developing his problem-solving abilities.
"I had that upbringing, and also, I was in the British training, especially at the Staff College in Benin, teaching you how to deal with any issue, any problem, whether you know it or not, how to appreciate the situation," he explained.
Gowon's comments offer rare insight into the personal challenges he faced while attempting to stabilize Nigeria during one of its most fractured periods. His leadership came at a critical juncture following the counter-coup, which had left the country on the brink of disintegration.
Despite his admitted lack of preparation for governance, Gowon would go on to lead Nigeria through the civil war and implement various policies aimed at national reconciliation under his famous "No victor, no vanquished" approach.
The 90-year-old former leader has in recent years offered reflections on his time in office, previously describing the Biafran civil war as a "painful episode" in Nigeria's history.
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