Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended felicitations to the former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, Rtd on the occasion of his 89th birthday.
President Tinubu celebrates the elder statesman whose visionary leadership has shaped major milestones in Nigeria’s history.
The President’s congratulatory messages were contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.
The President eulogises General Gowon for institutionalising the peace process in Nigeria with lasting legacies characterised by achievements like initiating the state creation process to strengthen Nigeria’s federal structure, promoting unity and inter-ethnic harmony through the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and upholding national harmony through the ongoing National Prayer Movement, which the President says serves as a source of inspiration for neighbourly relations and strong patriotism among Nigerians.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu sends warm greetings to former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on his 89th birthday,
“His love and passion for Nigeria, as well as his determination to see into manifestation the unique gifts and combined strengths of all Nigerians, irrespective of faith, tribe or any other difference, remains a pace-setting attribute of leadership that all present and future Nigerian leaders must emulate,” the President says.
President Tinubu affirmed the courage, passion, and wisdom that General Gowon has consistently exuded from his youth, being Nigeria’s youngest leader at 32
The Nigerian leader added that this has kept him steadfast and relevant at 89, as he continues to provide counsel to leaders, within and outside the country
The President joined the wife of the former Head of State, his family members, and many friends in celebration.
Dominica Nwabufo
