Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has appealed to Nigerians to embrace the lessons of history as a guide for building a more united and progressive nation, while advocating the restoration of History as a compulsory subject in Nigerian schools.
Speaking during activities marking the 60th remembrance of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, Obasanjo lamented that the country’s younger generation is growing up without adequate knowledge of the nation’s past.
He stressed that history remains essential in preventing the recurrence of national mistakes, warning that countries that neglect their historical experiences often find themselves repeating them.
According to the former President, Nigeria has witnessed several painful moments that should serve as lessons rather than be forgotten. He identified the January 15, 1966 military coup, the July 29, 1966 counter-coup, and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election as some of the darkest chapters in the country’s history.
Obasanjo maintained that while those events left deep divisions, they also provide opportunities for Nigerians to promote unity, inclusion and cooperation instead of allowing old wounds to widen national differences.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late Aguiyi-Ironsi, the former President described him as a disciplined officer and father figure who treated junior military officers with compassion and respect. He also praised Aguiyi-Ironsi’s distinguished military career, noting his contributions during the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo and his record as the first Nigerian to attain several top military ranks.
He urged Nigerians to continue preserving the memories of leaders who made sacrifices in the service of the nation.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid tribute to Aguiyi-Ironsi, describing him as a symbol of patriotism, discipline and national unity whose leadership came at a critical period in Nigeria’s history.
Represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, the President said Aguiyi-Ironsi remained a pioneer of indigenous military leadership and a strong advocate of Nigeria’s unity.
He noted that although the late military leader’s administration was short-lived, his commitment to national cohesion, stability and the preservation of Nigeria’s sovereignty continues to inspire generations.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to strengthen democratic institutions, improve national security and promote sustainable development, while calling on Nigerians to uphold the values of patriotism, discipline and peaceful coexistence.
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