Soldiers as Governors: A Study of Brigadier General Abba Kyari’s Administration in North Central State Nigeria, 1967-1975

Abstract

This study examines the activities of Brigadier General Abba Kyari’s administration as Governor in North Central State of Nigeria, 1967-1975. This is important because it helps us understand the military's changing roles since the 20th century. Although, the main constitutional responsibility of the military is the protection of the territorial integrity of the country. However, with the political independence of Nigeria in 1960 the military started to play other roles beyond being a professionally trained combatant force. In particular, the changing role of the military is evident in its new role as military in governance that has led to its contribution to nation-building. From this background, the military administration of Brigadier Abba Kyari was studied in North
Central State. For example, the period saw the completion of the projects inherited from the former Northern Regional Government and the structural reconstruction of the State Economy to generate and sustain a faster economic growth rate and to lay a solid foundation for future developments. Through historical methodology, the paper demonstrates the changing roles of the military in Nigeria, especially in the aspect of contribution to nation-building through the military in governance.