The Generation of '80 is known as the Argentine elite that ruled the country during the years 1880 and 1916. This was characterized by having a strong influence of French and English culture.

Lt Colonel Yakubu Gowon, the Chief of Army Staff under Ironsi, became the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces after the bloody coup d’etat of 29th July, 1966 which led to the assassination of General Aguiyi Ironsi and Lt. Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, the military governor of Western Nigeria and several military officers mainly of Igbo extraction. Ironsi was killed while on a state visit to the Western Region.