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FOREWORD

“THERE GOES ANOTHER GALLANT OLD SOLDIER”

The recent passing of Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson is not only a great personal loss to me, but also to my dear wife, Victoria, our family, his serving and retired colleagues, officers and gentlemen, governors, and indeed all Nigerians who knew and admired him.

Since our paths crossed in the early 1960s in the service of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Brigadier Johnson occupied a special place in our hearts. This was particularly so during the period of national upheavals in the mid- and late 1960s, when together we worked tirelessly to preserve the unity of our nation and lay the foundation for a stronger Nigeria.

I vividly recall the great sense of relief I felt when I entrusted the administration of Lagos to his capable hands following his appointment as the first Military Governor of the newly created Lagos State on 27 May 1967.

Prior to that time, as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I bore the responsibility of overseeing the administration of Lagos, then the seat of the Federal Government and a vital territory of post-independence Nigeria. This was in addition to my duties as the de facto Commissioner for Defence and Internal Affairs.

Brigadier Johnson quickly settled into his new role and learned the demands of governance with remarkable dedication. Supported by committed civil servants and the people of Lagos, he discharged his responsibilities with distinction. Lagos State was in very capable hands.

Together, we achieved significant progress in transforming Lagos into a modern and thriving state. During this period, major investments were made in housing development and road infrastructure across the metropolis, extending to Epe, Ikorodu, Ikeja, and Badagry. Much of the groundwork for the Lagos we know today was laid under his leadership.

To Brigadier Johnson fell the historic responsibility of building a modern Lagos, a task he embraced and executed with exceptional competence. It is equally to the credit of his successors that they have continued to build upon the solid foundation and legacy of excellence he established.

Throughout his years of service, he enjoyed the unwavering support of his family—Papa and Mama Johnson, his brothers and sister, his beloved wife, Mrs. Funmilayo Johnson, their children, Seye, Niyi, and Lanre, as well as members of the extended Johnson family. The people of Lagos also stood firmly behind him. It was truly gratifying to witness the remarkable progress being made during that era.

Particularly noteworthy is the fact that Brigadier Johnson emerged from public service without any stain of corruption despite the numerous capital-intensive projects executed under his administration. He was a man of honour, integrity, and uncommon dedication who served both his people and his nation selflessly.

I am especially pleased that subsequent administrations publicly affirmed his integrity and clean record, just as I believe of many who served our nation faithfully during that period.

As we bid farewell to this distinguished patriot, soldier, administrator, and statesman, we celebrate a life of service, honour, and enduring impact. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.

HE General Dr. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), GCFR
Former Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria