Nigerian Civil War

Explore the turbulent chapters of the Nigerian Civil War on OldNaija. Uncover the causes, battles, and profound impact of this significant conflict. Join us as we delve into the historical narratives, key figures, and the enduring lessons learned from this critical period in Nigeria’s history.

Narrating the Biafran War Through Chilling Photos

“War is what happens when language fails.” – Margaret Atwood Some wars are remembered through speeches, newspaper headlines and official…
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The Nigerian Civil War: Why and How It Happened (1967-1970)

The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War or the Nigerian-Biafran War, broke out between the Federal Republic…
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The Aburi Accord of 1967: Nigeria’s Last Chance at Peace

History is often a collection of “what ifs.” In the turbulent history of Nigeria, there is perhaps no bigger “what…
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Operation Unicord: The Battle and Capture of Nsukka in July 1967

On May 30, 1967, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu made the official declaration of secession for the Eastern Region from Nigeria, proclaiming the…
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Land Of The Rising Sun: The Biafran National Anthem Written by Nnamdi Azikwe

The history of the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) is often told through battles and coups, but to truly understand the…
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Slogans, Nicknames and Operational Names Associated with the Nigerian Civil War

It is common for every war/conflict to have its peculiar nickname and unique vocabulary used during its course. For example,…
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Abagana Ambush: How Biafran Army Killed Over 500 Nigerian Troops in One Attack

The Abagana Ambush of March 31st 1968 is one out of the many confrontations between Nigerian and Biafran troops during…
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Asaba Massacre: How Hundreds of Asaba People Were Killed In 1967

In August 1967, two months before the Asaba massacre, a division of the seceded Eastern Region (Biafra) army led by…
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5 Historical Riots/Wars In Nigeria That Almost Destroyed the Country

Various factors have stirred up conflicts among ethnic, religious and political groups in Nigeria. Religious, political and ethnic nationalism have…
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Photos: In 1969, General Yakubu Gowon Got Married in the Middle of the Biafran War

On April 19, 1969, Nigeria’s Head of State at the time, Major-General Yakubu Gowon, married Miss Victoria Zakari at the…
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Who Killed Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu?

Major Kaduna Nzeogwu’s Grave A Grim Anniversary Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu died in the final week of July 1967. While…
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January 8 Nigeria’s History: Ojukwu Fled to Ivory Coast Amidst War

On this day, 8th of January, 1970, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, leader of the breakaway Republic of Biafra, fled into exile…
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Victor Banjo’s Touching Letter To Aguiyi-Ironsi From Ikot Ekpene Prison

Who Was Victor Banjo And What Landed Him In Prison? Lt. Colonel Victor Banjo was a gallant Nigerian military officer…
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Ojukwu’s Letter to Victor Banjo Commanding Him to Invade Western Region

Below is the letter the Commander in Chief of the Biafran Armed Forces, Lt. Col. Odumegwu Ojukwu wrote to Lt.…
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Major Kaduna Nzeogwu’s Last Interview Before His Death

Below is Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu's last interview with Mr Dennis Ejindu of 'Africa and the World' a few months…
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