Theophilus Danjuma

Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (born December 9, 1938) is a Nigerian general, politician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. A revered figure in Nigerian history, he played a crucial role in post-independence military and political developments, serving at various times as Chief of Army Staff and Minister of Defence. Following his military career, he became a highly successful businessman, particularly in the oil sector, and is recognized for his extensive philanthropic endeavors. **Early Life and Education** Theophilus Danjuma was born in Takum, now part of Taraba State, Nigeria, into a family of the Jukun ethnic group. He received his early education at St. Bartholomew’s Primary School in Wusasa, Zaria. He proceeded to the prestigious Nigeria College of Arts, Science, and Technology in Zaria (now Ahmadu Bello University) in 1959. However, his academic path shifted when he decided to join the Nigerian Army. **Career Progression and Military Service** Danjuma enrolled at the Nigerian Army Recruit Training Centre in Zaria in 1960. He was subsequently sent to the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England, and later attended the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. His early military career saw him rise rapidly through the ranks, and he was involved in several pivotal moments in Nigeria's history. He played a significant role in the 1966 Nigerian counter-coup. During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), he commanded a battalion. In 1975, Danjuma was appointed the Chief of Army Staff under the regime of General Murtala Muhammed and, later, General Olusegun Obasanjo. He held this position until 1979, overseeing a significant restructuring and professionalization of the Nigerian Army before retiring from service. **Major Achievements and Post-Military Career** After retiring from the military, Danjuma transitioned into a highly successful business career. His most notable achievement in the private sector is the establishment of the hugely profitable **Nigeria America Line (NAL)**, which became a significant player in the shipping industry. He later founded **South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO)**, an upstream oil and gas exploration and production company, which secured highly lucrative oil concessions and firmly established him as one of Nigeria's wealthiest businessmen. In 1999, following the return to democracy, Danjuma was appointed the Minister of Defence under the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, serving until 2003. In this role, he was instrumental in reforming the Nigerian Armed Forces and re-equipping them after decades of military rule. **Philanthropy and Notable Works** Danjuma is widely recognized for his humanitarian work through the **T. Y. Danjuma Foundation**, established in 2008. The foundation focuses on poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare in Nigeria, particularly in his native Taraba State and the Niger Delta region. His philanthropic efforts often focus on addressing conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence across ethnic and religious lines in Nigeria. **Current Status** As of today, Theophilus Danjuma remains a prominent elder statesman, an influential figure in business, and an active philanthropist. He continues to advocate for good governance, national unity, and security in Nigeria, often speaking out on critical national issues from his position as a respected non-partisan voice. He is based primarily in Nigeria, overseeing his vast business and charitable interests.