Retired General Theophilus Danjuma donated N3 billion on Tuesday at the book launch. The event marked the public presentation of former Head of State Yakubu Gowon's autobiography in Abuja.
Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Group, also pledged N500 million to support the occasion. Both donations underscored the significance of Gowon's memoir in Nigeria's history.
Vice President Kashim Shettima attended on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. Top government officials, diplomats, and senior military officers filled the venue.
The book, titled "My Life of Duty and Allegiance," spans 20 chapters. Danjuma served as chief presenter, represented by Retired General Martin Luther Agwai, a former Chief of Defence Staff.
Beyond the cash donation, Danjuma ordered 12 copies for university libraries. These went to institutions that had previously conferred honorary doctorates on Gowon.
In his remarks, Danjuma called Gowon Nigeria's foremost living statesman. He described him as an international figure whose wartime command saved the nation from collapse.
"Gen. Gowon is not only a household name in Nigeria but also a globally acknowledged leader with an impeccable record in leadership, nation-building and military strategy," Danjuma noted.
He highlighted Gowon's famous post-civil war motto. According to Danjuma, the "no victor, no vanquished" principle shaped Nigeria's reconciliation and reconstruction efforts.
Danjuma revealed a 70-year friendship with Gowon. Both men grew up together in Wusasi, Zaria, he told the gathering.
Danjuma called the memoir a "treasure trove of history." He believes it represents a priceless gift to humanity.
Dangote's representative, Mansur Ahmed, announced the purchase of 25 copies. The billionaire's office paid N500 million for this batch.
Ahmed noted that Dangote was only ten years old during Nigeria's turbulent civil war period. Gowon's leadership preserved the stability that allowed the future businessman to thrive.
"His successful efforts to keep Nigeria unified created the environment for Dangote to grow and build a pan-African business empire," Ahmed remarked.
Other corporate titans also made substantial book purchases at the event. Abdul-Samad Rabiu, president of BUA Group, bought copies for N25 million.
Bishop Mathew Kukah, a prominent Catholic cleric and social commentator, reviewed the book. He has served as Sokoto Diocese's Catholic Bishop since 2011.
