President Muhammadu Buhari today felicitated with former military head of state, Gen. Gen. Yakubu Gowon, on his 85th birthday.
The president, in a statement by his media aide, Mr. Femi Adesina described Gowon as a “living legend and symbol of national unity.
He said “Gen. Gowon’s visionary leadership style, wisdom and disciplined outlook kept the country as one.”
He extolled the former military ruler for “faith and steadfastness in God in times of adversity, and courageously pursuing the interest of majority of Nigerians for a unified and stronger country.”
Besides, Buhari praised his former military counterpart for laying a solid foundation for the country to thrive, with the creation of federating units, and implementation of futuristic policies like the National Youths Service Corps, that has consistency served the purpose of fostering unity, harmony and expanding the horizons of young Nigerians for life-time opportunities.
He also commended Gowon’s simplicity and humility, leaving the highest position in the country to return to school for further studies, and returning to provide wise counsels to leaders, encouraging good governance and setting up an organization ‘Nigeria Prays’, that consistently upholds the nation in prayers.
He said the former head of state had stayed relevant in Nigeria and beyond, and enjoys wide respect from far and near.
He prayed God to “always remember his (Gowon’s) sacrifices for the nation, and grant him longer life, good health and strength to keep working for the good of country and humanity.”
