Some Dignitaries in the likes of former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Ibrahim Babangida and President Bola Tinubu have celebrated rtd Gen. Yakubu Gowon, as he marked 90th birthday celebration.
The dignitaries, who spoke at the public lecture in commemoration of Gowon’s birthday anniversary, urged the younger generation and present leaders to emulate his unifying lifestyle.
President Tinubu, who was represented by Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, at the event celebrated yesterday (Friday, October 18) in Abuja, praised Gowon for his remarkable achievement for Nigeria, adding that Nigerians would not forget Gowon for his fight to to make Nigeria remain one.
Also, former President Obasanjo, described Gowon as a ‘man of destiny’, adding that Gowon’s birthday celebration was a national one, which would remain a memorial in his mind.
” I thank God for giving you strength to celebrate your 90 years while you are still alive,” Obasanjo said.
Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar III, said Gowon’s life is worthy of emulation, looking at his past contribution to the growth of Nigeria.
According to Abubakar, Gowon as a former head of state, had during his time as the head of government, fought hard for the unity of Nigeria.
Also, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President, African Development Bank Group, who delivered the birthday celebration lecture on: ‘Building a global Nigeria’, said Gowon remains the greatest father and exceptional global leader.
“Gowon is one of Nigeria’s greatest statesmen, a rebirth leader, a father of the nation,” he said.
Adesina, who recalled Gowon’s commitment and achievement, called on the current leaders to embark on building a global Nigeria that would stand out among nations of the world.
Responding, Gowon expressed gratitude to God for sparing his life.
He thanked all the dignitaries present, including President Tinubu, and other Nigerians both home and abroad, for celebrating with him.
He wished all those who celebrated their own 90th birthday anniversary good health and long life.
