I nearly made IBB my ADC – Gowon

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General Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State, has revealed that he nearly appointed General Ibrahim Babangida as his Aide-de-Camp (ADC).

In the Foreword of Babangida’s recently launched book A Journey in Service, which was unveiled in Abuja on Friday, Gowon shared his admiration for the retired general. He spoke fondly of their long relationship, which dates back to Babangida’s early days as a young officer in the military.

Gowon recalled being so impressed with Babangida’s intellect and professionalism that he came close to making him his ADC. However, he left the details of that decision for Babangida to share himself, as he felt the story was best told by him.

“At some point, I was so impressed by his intellect and outstanding professionalism that he almost became my Aide-de-Camp,” Gowon wrote, adding that “that story belongs elsewhere, and I will leave him to tell it for the benefit of others who did not have the privilege of proximity to our careers.”

“I can assert with pride that General Babangida was arguably one of the most remarkable military officers this country is blessed with.

“Brilliant but unassuming, gifted but sociable, a natural leader but also a devoted follower, Ibrahim was destined for great things. It did not come as a surprise when it pleased God to elevate him to the summit of political leadership in our country’s days of military rule.

“In the post-civil war period, his tenure in office is easily the most remarkable in the lineup of military leaders that our nation has witnessed. I say this without equivocation for so many reasons.

“Unlike some of us, his seniors, he tried to be the best of two opposing worlds. He sought to be an officer and a gentleman in the finest tradition.

“At the same time, he had unusual political sophistication and savvy, which enabled him to freely navigate the complex world of politics without losing grip of his command and control of the military establishment.

“He was proud of his military background, just as the military institution remained proud of his achievements in the political management of the nation.”

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