General Gowon Commends National Defence College, Tasks Officers on Democratic Protection and Modern Warfare
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), has lauded the National Defence College (NDC) Nigeria for its role in cultivating loyal and dedicated officers for the nation’s Armed Forces. Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, in Abuja on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the elder statesman emphasized the military’s role as a pillar of national stability.
Upholding Democracy and Modernizing Strategy
General Gowon, who led Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, issued a clarion call to military officers to protect Nigeria’s democracy “at all costs,” describing it as the premier form of government globally. Addressing the evolving nature of global security, the former Head of State urged the College leadership to continuously refine its curriculum to meet the challenges of the 21st century. “You are saddled with the responsibility of training senior officers for higher strategic leadership. There is a critical need to incorporate revolving non-conventional warfare—including counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency—into your curriculum,” Gowon stated. “This will equip senior officers with the specialized skills needed to confront modern, unconventional threats.”
Training: The Bedrock of Military Success
The General stressed that rigorous training is the “bedrock” of any successful military campaign. He encouraged the participants of NDC Course 34 to maximize the opportunity to prepare for future high-command responsibilities. “Without continuous training and retraining, it is nearly impossible for the military to fulfill its constitutional mandates,” he noted. “Security is the panacea for national development; a secured nation thrives in every area of human endeavor.”
A Legacy of Unity
Reflecting on his tenure and the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War, General Gowon recounted the initiatives he introduced to heal and unite the nation. These included the establishment of Federal Unity Schools and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). He also noted that the “Boys Company,” later renamed the Nigerian Military School (NMS), was established during his administration to foster early military discipline and national service.
NDC Leadership Seeks Strategic Guidance
Earlier, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed congratulated General Gowon on his 91st birthday and thanked him for his enduring commitment to the country. The Commandant explained that the visit was part of a familiarization tour following his assumption of command late last year.
“You are an embodiment of knowledge and a primary think-tank, especially regarding security, having steered this country through its most trying periods,” Rear Admiral Ahmed said. He noted that interacting with such seasoned leaders is vital to his mission of repositioning the NDC for optimum performance.
The visit concluded with the presentation of an official souvenir to General Gowon and a group photograph. The Commandant was accompanied by senior officials, including:
Major General KO Ukandu, Deputy Commandant/Director of Studies, AVM E Owai, College Secretary, Professor AO Ahmed, Provost Centre for Strategic Research and Studies and Other Directors of the College.
