Former Nigerian Head of State Yakubu Gowon has revealed that the refusal of the United States and Britain to supply arms during the Nigerian civil war forced his government to seek military support from the Soviet Union and black-market sources.
The disclosure is contained in Gowon’s autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, launched in Abuja. According to him, Nigeria faced severe ammunition shortages during the war, with military stockpiles dangerously depleted by late 1968.
Gowon explained that Western restrictions on arms sales left Nigeria with limited options despite the government’s efforts to preserve national unity during the conflict.
After unsuccessful meetings with British and American diplomats, Gowon said he turned to the Soviet Union for assistance. Moscow later supplied fighter jets and military equipment that helped strengthen Nigeria’s war efforts.
The former Head of State also revealed that Lebanese businessman Ali Jamal played a key role by financing emergency arms purchases through the black market when the government lacked immediate funds.
Gowon noted that the decision sparked tension within the Federal Executive Council, particularly with former Finance Commissioner Obafemi Awolowo, who reportedly objected to the payment process.
The civil war, which lasted from 1967 to 1970, remains one of the most defining periods in Nigeria’s history.
