Danjuma donates N3bn, Dangote N500m at Gowon’s autobiography launch

Theophilus Danjuma, a former minister of defence, on Tuesday donated N3 billion at the public presentation of the autobiography of former Head of State, retired General Yakubu Gowon, in Abuja.

Aliko Dangote, the president of the Dangote Group, also supported the launch with a donation of N500 million.

The autobiography, titled, “My Life of Duty and Allegiance,” was unveiled at an event attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, alongside top government officials, diplomats and senior military officers.

Danjuma, who served as chief presenter at the event, was represented by former Chief of Defence Staff, retired General Martin Luther Agwai.

Beyond the financial donation, Danjuma also directed that 12 copies of the book be purchased and distributed to libraries in each of the 20 universities that have awarded honorary doctorate degrees to Gowon.

In his tribute, Danjuma described Gowon as “Nigeria’s foremost living statesman,” praising his leadership during the civil war and his role in preserving the country’s unity.

“Gen. Gowon is not only a household name in Nigeria but also a globally acknowledged leader with an impeccable record in leadership, nation-building and military strategy.

“His well-known declaration of ‘no victor, no vanquished’ after the civil war laid the foundation for reconciliation, reconstruction and rehabilitation,” he said.

Danjuma added that his friendship with Gowon spans more than 70 years, dating back to their childhood in Wusasa, Zaria, describing the memoir as “a treasure trove of history.”

Representing Dangote, senior adviser Mansur Ahmed announced the purchase of 25 copies of the book for N500 million in honour of Gowon.

Ahmed noted that Dangote was only 10 years old when Gowon led Nigeria through one of its most difficult periods, adding that the former Head of State’s efforts to keep the country united created the environment that enabled businesses like Dangote Group to thrive.

Other dignitaries also bought copies of the book, including Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group, who purchased copies worth N25 million.