Gowon Hails Tinubu’s Leadership in Abuja Visit

ABUJA – Nigeria’s elder statesman and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), paid a courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The meeting, coming weeks after General T.Y. Danjuma’s similar visit, underscored growing support from military veterans for Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking to journalists after the closed-door session, Gowon expressed profound appreciation for Tinubu’s handling of state affairs. “I came to see him and to thank him for all the good works that he’s doing for the country. We had to look at all the good work that the President is doing and the progress that Nigeria is making economically and otherwise,” the 91-year-old leader, who headed Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, stated.

Gowon gave Tinubu a strong pass mark across governance sectors, rejecting calls to pinpoint weaknesses. He rhetorically asked, “Isn’t he doing the best he can all round? Every area—political, economic, social—requires attention.” The former head of state highlighted steady economic progress and comprehensive reforms under Tinubu, noting the administration’s balanced approach avoids creating new problems.

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On Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, Gowon affirmed the President’s proactive stance. “The major problem that we have today, the security area, he’s doing everything to deal with those for the good of all Nigeria,” he said, adding optimism that government efforts would soon yield lasting peace. This endorsement aligns with Gowon’s history of promoting national unity, from leading through the Civil War to recent peace initiatives.

The visit signals continuity in elder statesmen’s engagement with Tinubu’s government, boosting morale amid economic reforms and insecurity debates. No official readout from the State House detailed private discussions, but Gowon’s public remarks reinforce confidence in Tinubu’s leadership as Nigeria navigates 2026 challenges.