Buhari celebrates Gowon on 90th birthday

Abdullateef Fowewe

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has felicitated Nigeria’s former Military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, on the occasion of his 90th birthday celebration.

Buhari in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, on Friday, described the former Nigeria leader as a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.

The statement reads, “Former President Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon as he marks his birthday, praising his visionary leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

“In a message to General Gowon on his 90th birthday, President Buhari said the former military ruler’s far-sighted leadership and commitment to the nation’s unity and future development was praiseworthy.

“We honor his invaluable contributions to our nation’s continued existence as one, and the progress that has come with that. Today we pay a humble tribute to a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.”

According to Shehu, Buhari said both old and younger generations of Nigerians would continue to be proud of General Gowon and the officers and men he led for their courage and gallantry in preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the nation.

“I pay homage to all those who served and laid their lives for the country. Gowon and the team he led will continue to inspire the young generations and the country for a long time,” Buhari said.

“He conveyed his strong appreciation for the resolute dedication of the former Head of State as he continues to offer service to the nation and its people, including the admirable role he plays in leading his pet project ‘Nigeria Prays,” it added.