Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
Took power after a coup but was in office for only a few months before he was overthrown and killed in a counter-coup.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi served as Nigeria's head of government from January 1966 to July 1966.
When was Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi born?
Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi was born on 3 March 1924, which would make he about 102 years old today.
What state is Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi from?
Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi hails from Abia State in Nigeria's South-East geopolitical zone.
What religion did Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi practise?
Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi is widely identified as a Christian. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Murtala Muhammed
- General Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Sani Abacha
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Abia State
- Governor
- Alex Otti
- House of Reps
- 8 members — listed on the Abia State page