President Bola Tinubu has praised the legacy of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, describing his leadership as a guiding force in Nigeria’s governance.
Tinubu made the remarks on Saturday night during a banquet held in honour of the retired General’s 90th birthday anniversary at the State House in Abuja.
In his address, President Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, referred to Gowon as the “father of national infrastructure and unity,” highlighting his pivotal role in laying the foundation for the systems that support modern-day Nigeria.
“Your sterling example lights the path for us in government, in encouraging us to strive relentlessly to serve our fatherland with integrity and dedication,” the president said.
“Indeed you can rightly be called the father of National Infrastructure and Unity.
“Having laid the solid foundation for the systems that support our country today, one of the most beautiful legacies left behind after the civil war was your philosophy of no victory, no vanquish.
“This powerful mantra fostered an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation that many cherish and strive for today.”
Gowon, who led Nigeria during the tumultuous years of the civil war, was also lauded for his role in fostering post-war reconciliation.
President Tinubu commended the former leader’s commitment to unity and dialogue, both within Nigeria and across the region, referencing his pivotal role in the establishment of ECOWAS in 1975.
“You have always moderated us towards moderation and dialogue,” Tinubu continued. “Remarkable with us is the importance of unity within the ECOWAS and beyond. I am immensely grateful for your wise counsel and invaluable contributions,” he added.
The president also acknowledged Gowon’s continued efforts towards peace through his ‘Nigeria Prays’ initiative, which has advocated for religious tolerance and national harmony.
“We remain grateful for the lessons you taught us. Through your Nigeria Prays programme, you have shown your unwavering commitment to peace, harmony, and stability in Nigeria,” he said.
“In your retirement, you have remained a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. Your continued quest for learning reminds us that age and status have no barrier to growth and enlightenment.”
Also speaking, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in his remarks, praised Gowon’s contributions to national unity, recalling his role in creating the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Unity Schools, and Federal Universities.
“We had a difficult situation, and at a very young age of 31 going to 32, that makes you the youngest Nigerian that has ever occupied that position,” Obasanjo stated.
The former President added: “What you achieved is just not your effort but the efforts and sacrifice of many Nigerians who worked with you.”
Obasanjo urged Gowon to continue in his prayers for Nigeria, saying, “Until you stop breathing, your life will continue to be dedicated to service and humanity and service to God.”
For his part, former President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, also praised Gowon’s unifying influence and his private counsel during difficult times.
“As a military Head of State and democratically elected President of Nigeria, I can testify to his private wise counsel all the time to the good of our country,” Buhari stated.
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