In the records of Nigeria, there have been situations where leaders assumed the presidency at a surprisingly young age. This article focuses on three amazing individuals who grew to become presidents of Nigeria in their 30s.
General Yakubu Gowon (31 years old)
Yakubu Gowon emerged as the head of state of Nigeria in 1966, following a military coup. At the time, he used to be just 31 years old, making him one of the youngest leaders in the country’s history. Gowon led Nigeria in the course of a challenging period, along with the Biafra secessionist war that resulted in a devastating civil war lasting from 1967 to 1970. During his tenure, Gowon implemented full-size policies, which include the “Three Rs” of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation, aimed at healing the wounds precipitated by means of the war. He prioritized countrywide cohesion and labored toward the integration of the diverse Nigerian population. Gowon’s leadership spanned nearly a decade until he was overthrown in another military coup in 1975.
General Murtala Muhammed (37 years old)
General Murtala Muhammed assumed the presidency of Nigeria in 1975 at the age of 37. He got here to power after every other army coup, which overthrew General Yakubu Gowon. Muhammed’s presidency was once marked by means of a commitment to battle corruption, fix discipline in governance, and promote socio-economic reforms. He implemented measures to fight corruption, decrease government expenditure, and promote public accountability. However, his presidency was tragically reduce brief in 1976 when he was once assassinated.
General Olusegun Obasanjo (39 years old)
General Olusegun Obasanjo, one of Nigeria’s most distinguished leaders, he holds the distinction of being each a military and civilian president. At the age of 39, on February 13, 1976, Obasanjo assumed the presidency, serving until October 1, 1979. Significantly, he played a pivotal position in Nigeria’s transition back to democracy, as he peacefully transferred electricity to Shehu Shagari on October 1, 1979, marking Nigeria’s first peaceable transition of power. Obasanjo later lower back to office in 1999, this time thru democratic elections, and served as the president for two consecutive terms until 2007. His 2d tenure was marked by way of several achievements, such as financial reforms, anti-corruption initiatives, and improvements in governance.