Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, retd, has given insight into why he championed the creation of states in Nigeria, among others, while he was in the office as head of states, urging Northern elites to build a consensus around issues that would serve the greater interest of Nigeria as a whole.

He spoke when a delegation of the Senator Ibrahim Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats, LND, visited him on Wednesday at the Yakubu Gowon Centre, in Abuja.

Gowon, who governed Nigeria between 1966 and 1975, told his visitors that it was aimed at dousing tension and removing the fear of Northern domination by other component parts of the Federation.

The elder statesman expressed concern over the current challenges facing Northern Nigeria, Including insecurity, disunity, and social issues.

He commended the efforts of the LND to address these issues and promote unity in the North and across Nigeria.

Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, Chairman of the LND, described Gowon as a symbol of unity and resilience, while commending the retired General for his leadership during Nigeria’s most challenging periods and his continued commitment to the nation.