On Sunday, October 19, 1969, Nigerian military leader Major General Yakubu Gowon addressed troops of the Federal Guards at a parade held in honour of his 35th birthday. He expressed confidence in the ability of the federal armed forces to end the rebellion led by the former Eastern Region — a step he believed would pave the way for national unity and solidarity. Excerpt from his Speech: "It's an understatement for me to say that I am proud of you, guardsmen. Your record of loyalty, your record o

"[Leaders] can't afford to ignore calls for separatism...but the crackdowns are creating more support for this movement, ironically." CNN's Stephanie Busari explains the growing support for Biafra independence in Nigeria. | CNN Africa