By Citizenship Daily
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon has accepted the invitation to serve as Chairman of the forthcoming launch of a book on Historical Society of Nigeria at 70.
Gowon’s acceptance stands as a significant endorsement of the Society’s ongoing work to promote the relevance of history in national development and collective memory.
This is according to a statement by the Society on Tuesday signed by Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd) mni, fnipr,
Chairman, Publicity Committee.
The Society had on Monday, May 5 2025, paid a courtesy visit on the revered statesmen, former Head of State, General (Dr) Yakubu Gowon (rtd), GCFR.
The visit, held at the Yakubu Gowon Centre in Abuja, formed part of the Society’s build-up activities ahead of its landmark 70th anniversary celebrations.
The delegation was led by Professor Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, Fellow and former National President of the Historical Society of Nigeria and Secretary-General to the Committee of Vice Chancellors.
It comprised members of the Executive Committee and the Organising Committee for the anniversary.
The visit was one of several initiatives marking the Society’s 70th anniversary in 2025, a milestone that will also feature the 5th Congress of the Association of African Historians, the Society said.
“Together, these events will bring scholars, policymakers, cultural custodians, and the public into dialogue on the richness of Nigeria’s past and the collective aspirations for Africa’s future.
“As HSN continues its preparations, the visit to General Gowon not only served as an important outreach but also symbolised the bridging of generations between national leaders and the historical community.
“The Society extends heartfelt appreciation to all those who made the visit possible and invites partners, stakeholders, and well-wishers to join in celebrating this momentous occasion in Nigeria’s academic
landmark 70th anniversary celebrations.
“Our interaction with General Gowon was deeply enriching. With characteristic warmth and humility, he shared profound insights on Nigeria’s historical evolution, the imperative of national unity, and the role of historians in nation-building.
“His gracious reception reaffirmed his enduring commitment to the preservation of Nigeria’s historical heritage and the intellectual advancement of the country.”
