Tinubu, Danjuma to Headline Launch of Yakubu Gowon’s Autobiography in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Minister of Defence Theophilus Danjuma are expected to headline the public presentation of the long-awaited autobiography of former Head of State Yakubu Gowon on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Abuja.
The event will take place at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre and is expected to attract senior government officials, military veterans, diplomats, and dignitaries from across the country.
President Tinubu will attend as the special guest of honour, while Lt. Gen. Danjuma (Rtd) is scheduled to officially unveil the autobiography.
The 881-page book, published by Havilah Group, offers a personal account of Gen. Gowon’s life, leadership journey, and reflections on key moments in Nigeria’s history, including the 30-month Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.
The autobiography also documents Gowon’s early life and his rise to national leadership during a critical period in the country’s political history.
Born in 1934, Gowon became Nigeria’s Head of State and Commander-in-Chief on August 1, 1966, serving in office for nine years.
Following his exit from office, the former leader earned a doctorate degree in political science from University of Warwick in 1984 and has since focused on peacebuilding, national development, and humanitarian advocacy.
His post-service initiatives include the “Nigeria Prays” movement and campaigns against diseases such as guinea worm, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria through the Yakubu Gowon Centre.
Gen. Gowon also serves as Nigeria’s national goodwill ambassador for the control of viral hepatitis.
Tinubu, Danjuma to Headline Launch of Yakubu Gowon’s Autobiography in Abuja