•Buhari and Gowon
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has paid glowing tribute to General Yakubu Gowon, retired Military Head of State, as he marks his 90th birthday, praising his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Describing General Gowon as a distinguished statesman and soldier with exceptional leadership qualities, Buhari acknowledged his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s continued existence as a unified nation.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former president commended Gowon’s far-sighted leadership and commitment to the nation’s unity and future development, noting that his legacy will continue to inspire younger generations.
“We honour 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”, he said.
Buhari also recognised Gowon’s remarkable achievements, including his role in leading the country through reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction after the civil war.
He said both old and the 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”, he said.
The former president expressed his deep appreciation for Gowon’s ongoing service to the nation, particularly through his pet project, “Nigeria Prays.”
