Fellow Nigerians,
Today, I stand before you, humbled by the weight of history and the imperative of our collective future. As a former Head of State, I have witnessed the best and worst of our nation. I have seen the depths of our divisions and the heights of our resilience. And I am convinced that the time has come for us to choose unity, to choose reconciliation, and to choose a brighter future for all Nigerians.
The wounds of our past, particularly those inflicted during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War, still linger. The scars of conflict, displacement, and loss continue to affect us. But I firmly believe that we must not let these wounds define us. We must not allow the shadows of our past to dictate our present and future.
To my fellow Nigerians, especially those from the South Eastern region, I say: it is time to heal, it is time to forgive, and it is time to move forward together. The Igbos, who have contributed so immensely to our nation’s growth and development, must be welcomed back into the national fold. We must recognize their sacrifices, their resilience, and their unwavering commitment to Nigeria.
To the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, I appeal: take bold steps towards reconciliation. Release Nnamdi Kanu, a symbol of the struggles and aspirations of the Igbo people. This act of clemency will be a powerful gesture of goodwill and a commitment to healing.
Let us integrate the Igbos fully into the affairs of Nigeria. Let us ensure that they have equal opportunities, equal rights, and equal representation. Let us work together to rebuild trust, to foster understanding, and to promote unity.
My fellow Nigerians, we are a diverse people, with different cultures, languages, and traditions. But we are also one people, bound by a shared history, a shared destiny, and a shared vision for a better Nigeria.
Let us forget the transgressions of the past. Let us forgive those who have wronged us. And let us work towards a future where every Nigerian can live in peace, dignity, and prosperity.
To achieve this, we must:
1.Promote dialogue and understanding: Encourage open and honest conversations among all Nigerians, especially between leaders and representatives of different regions and ethnic groups.
2. Address historical injustices: Acknowledge the wrongs of the past and take concrete steps to address them, including the release of Nnamdi Kanu and the rehabilitation of those affected by the civil war.
3. Foster economic inclusion: Ensure that all Nigerians, including those from the South Eastern region, have equal access to economic opportunities, resources, and infrastructure.
4. Strengthen national institutions: Build strong, inclusive, and accountable institutions that serve the interests of all Nigerians, regardless of their region or ethnicity.
5. Celebrate our diversity: Embrace our cultural richness and promote national unity through events, programs, and initiatives that showcase our shared heritage.
In conclusion, my dear fellow Nigerians, I urge you to join me in this call to reconciliation and unity. Let us put aside our differences and work towards a brighter future for all. Let us build a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive, where every region can prosper, and where our diversity is a source of strength, not division.
Together, we can achieve this. Together, we must achieve this.
Thank you.
General Yakubu Gowon
(Former Head of State, Federal Republic of Nigeria)
October 17, 2025
