Yakubu Gowon - Dan Yumma Jack Details

Yakubu Gowon - Dan Yumma Jack Details 

Yakubu Dan-Yumma "Jack" Gowon GCFR is a notable Nigerian statesman who held the position of Head of State of Nigeria from August 1966 to July 1975 as The youngest President in Nigeria in History. During this time, he played a crucial role in leading the Federal military government's efforts throughout the Nigerian Civil War.

Gowon is renowned for his delivery of the notable "no victor, no vanquished" speech, which aimed to foster healing and reconciliation following the culmination of the war. Despite being a contentious figure, facing allegations of crimes against humanity and genocide during the Nigerian Civil War, Gowon staunchly refutes these claims, consistently maintaining that his leadership was pivotal in safeguarding the country.

An ardent Nigerian nationalist and an Anglican Christian hailing from the minority Ngas ethnic group in Northern Nigeria, Gowon has consistently advocated for the unity of Nigeria. He ushered in significant political and military developments during his tenure as head of state and left an indelible mark on Nigerian and African politics.

Gowon's diverse roles, including serving as the Chairperson of the Organisation of African Unity and as the Federal Commissioner of Defence, attest to his profound influence on Nigerian and African affairs. His military service, encompassing his post as Chief of Army Staff and his leadership during the Nigerian Civil War, firmly establishes his legacy as a pivotal figure within Nigerian history during a crucial era of the country's evolution.

 

List of Offices occupied by Yakubu Gowon, 3rd Head of State of Nigeria:

- Chief of Staff: J. E. A. Wey (1 August 1966 – 29 July 1975)

- Preceded by: Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi

- Succeeded by: Murtala Mohammed

Chairperson of the Organisation of African Unity:

- 27 May 1973 – 12 June 1974

- Preceded by: Hassan II

- Succeeded by: Siad Barre

Federal Commissioner of Defence:

- 1966–1975

- Preceded by: Inuwa Wada

- Succeeded by: Illiya Bisalla

Federal Commissioner for External Affairs:

- 1966–1967

- Preceded by: Nuhu Bamalli

- Succeeded by: Arikpo Okoi

Chief of Army Staff:

- 16 January 1966 – 29 July 1966

- Preceded by: Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi

- Succeeded by: Joseph Akahan

Personal details:

- Born: 19 October 1934 (age 89), Kanke, Northern Region, British Nigeria (now Kanke, Plateau, Nigeria)

- Spouse: Victoria Zakari (m. 1969)

- Alma mater: Barewa College, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Staff College Camberley, Joint Staff College Latimer, University of Warwick

- Occupation: Military officer, professor

- Nickname: "Jack"

Military service:

- Allegiance: Nigeria

- Branch/service: Nigerian Army

- Years of service: 1954–1975

- Rank: General

- Battles/wars: Congo Crisis, Nigerian Civil War