The Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) has paid a courtesy visit to former Head of State, Retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by Retired Brig.-Gen. S.K. Usman, Chairman of the Publicity Committee, the visit symbolised the bridging of generations between national leaders and the historical community.
Usman highlighted that the visit reaffirmed Gowon’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s historical heritage and advancing the country’s intellectual growth.
He said Gowon accepted the invitation to serve as Chairman for the HSN’s upcoming 70th Book Launch event.
Usman described this as a strong endorsement of the Society’s ongoing efforts to promote history’s role in national development and collective memory.
The visit, led by Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, former National President of the HSN, also included members of the Executive and Organising Committees for the anniversary.
During the meeting, Gowon shared valuable insights on Nigeria’s historical evolution, national unity, and the role of historians in nation-building.
“The 70th anniversary will include several initiatives, including the 5th Congress of the Association of African Historians, which aims to foster dialogue on Nigeria’s history and Africa’s future.”
Usman urged all stakeholders to join the Society in celebrating the milestone.