Former President Muhammadu Buhari has extended heartfelt tributes to Nigeria’s former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, in celebration of his upcoming 90th birthday.
In a statement released on Friday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari lauded Gowon’s legacy as a visionary leader whose dedication helped shape the trajectory of the nation, particularly during some of its most challenging periods.
Buhari emphasized that General Gowon’s leadership was instrumental in preserving Nigeria’s unity and fostering progress, noting his significant role during the Nigerian Civil War.
Reflecting on the contributions Gowon made during his tenure, Buhari remarked, “We honour his invaluable contributions to our nation’s continued existence as one, and the progress that has come with that.”
Describing Gowon as both a statesman and a capable military leader, Buhari further praised his remarkable leadership qualities, stating, “Today we pay a humble tribute to a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.”
He noted that Gowon’s administration had set a standard for future leaders, and his name remains synonymous with resilience and commitment to national unity.
Buhari also paid tribute to the officers who served under Gowon, highlighting their bravery during pivotal moments in Nigeria’s history.
He expressed his belief that the legacy of Gowon and his contemporaries would continue to resonate with future generations, saying, “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.”
In his statement, Buhari also commended Gowon’s enduring influence on national policies, notably mentioning his role in creating the National Youth Service Corps as part of his efforts to foster national integration.
He further acknowledged Gowon’s ongoing commitment to national peace and development through his prayer initiative, ‘Nigeria Prays.’
As General Yakubu Gowon marks his 90th birthday on October 19, 2024, the tribute from Buhari is a testament to the profound impact of his leadership and the respect he commands across generations.
