Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu on Saturday joined family, friends and well-wishers to celebrate former Head of State, retired General Yakubu Gowon as he clocks 90.
The First was among worshippers who attended a special church service in commemoration of the former Nigerian leader, held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
She said his life of simplicity, humility, grace, dignity, and patriotism offers hope on the future for the future of Nigeria.
Other dignitaries that attended the church service included former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, who all converged to honour General Gowon.
Virtues
Recounting the virtues General Yakubu Gowon stands for, the First Lady said she was six years old when he took the reins of power, highlighting his simplicity and patriotism.
“Looking back, I realize that your life is a life destined by God, who called you to be an exemplary leader of good in this world of cynicism and despair.
“Your life of simplicity, humility, grace, dignity, and patriotism to our nation gives us hope, that Nigeria is all we have and we have to do everything in our power to make it work. Your love for country is infectious,” she said.
Thanking the celebrant on behalf of the President and the nation, the First Lady noted that his special touch on leadership offers a lot of lessons.
“You have both loved this nation, and the people, and taught us all how to be content, humble, reliable, gracious, available and show love to all,” Mrs Tinubu added.
Big Task
Basking in the celebration, General Yakubu Gowon urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the country, reminding them of his famous quote that to keep Nigeria one, is a task that must be achieved.
“We kept Nigeria together and all Nigerians from all parts of the country assisted me to keep Nigeria one and we did it, even though we had to fight an unfortunate civil war to keep it together.
“It is Nigeria that won in the end. Nigeria was the victor, not any part of Nigeria over the other,” he emphasized.
The thanksgiving service was a session of prayers and songs by various choir groups in honour of the former Head of State.
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