How Gowon’s ‘No Victor, No Vanquished’ and NYSC Shaped My Life – Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan used the launch of General Yakubu Gowon’s autobiography to highlight policies that still matter for Nigeria’s unity and progress. Jonathan praised Gowon’s declaration of “No victor, no vanquished” as the cornerstone of post–civil war healing and reconstruction. He said this philosophy remains vital as the country faces deep regional and ethnic divides. Speaking about the National Youth Service Corps, Jonathan shared how two early corps members taught him science in secondary school. He called the NYSC a powerful vision for national cohesion, even as he urged renewed commitment to its original ideals. He also commended Gowon’s role in founding ECOWAS and stressed that political memoirs preserve lessons for future leaders. Jonathan hinted he may one day pen his own reflections on service and leadership.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.