Tinubu, Mutfwang Celebrate Mrs. Victoria Gowon At 80

By Jonathan Nda- Isaiah, Abuja & Achor Abimaje, Jos

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Dr Mrs. Victoria Hansatu Gowon, the wife of a former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, on her 80th birthday yesterday, describing her as a woman whose life has been defined by grace, compassion and selfless service.

A statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the president as extolling  the noble roles Mrs. Gowon played, particularly in supporting her husband, who had the demanding responsibility of leading the nation through one of its most difficult periods.

“Victoria Gowon is a woman of substance, a devoted wife, a compassionate nurse and a source of strength and inspiration to many. In her own way, she contributed positively to national development and the promotion of values that strengthen and unite families, communities and a nation.

“Reaching the age of 80 is a significant milestone deserving of gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, preservation and abundant blessings. On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Nigeria, I warmly congratulate you on your birthday.

“May Almighty God continue to grant you good health, wisdom, strength, and bless you with many more years of fulfilment, peace and happiness.”

Similarly, Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, described Mrs. Victoria Gowon as a towering figure of excellence, a compassionate mother and a woman of remarkable grace.

A statement issued by the director of press and public affairs Dr. Gyang Bere said Mrs Victoria Gowon worked tirelessly in support of reconciliation, reconstruction and rebuilding of Nigeria during the administration of her husband.

“On this remarkable and momentous occasion of your 80th birthday, I extend my warmest felicitations and heartfelt best wishes to our beloved mother, Her Excellency, Victoria Gowon, former first lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said

The governor pointed out that at this significant milestone, he was celebrating a life defined by grace, compassion, faith, resilience, humility, and selfless service to humanity.

“Your years as First Lady during the administration of our beloved father, the former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, were marked by a remarkable commitment to the wellbeing of families and the unity of our dear nation.

“As a trained nurse, you demonstrated exceptional compassion and care for the sick and vulnerable, bringing comfort to those in distress and hope to the hopeless.”

He recalled with nostalgia the remarkable role played by Mrs. Gowon during a critical period in Nigeria’s history, when she provided invaluable motherly support, compassion and encouragement, while championing the ideals of peace, reconciliation, national healing and peaceful coexistence.

The governor said her enduring advocacy for peace and commitment to building bridges across ethnic, religious, and regional divides had earned her a special place in the hearts of Nigerians.

He noted that her life had demonstrated that nation-building is not achieved solely through the exercise of political authority, but also through compassion, wisdom, quiet diplomacy, sacrifice, service and the courage to promote understanding in times of difficulty.

“As you attain this remarkable age of 80, we celebrate not only the gift of your life but also the enduring legacy of motherhood, peace, service, and love for Nigeria that you have built over the decades.

The governor added that Mrs Gowon remained a source of wisdom, inspiration, and motherly warmth to generations, and her contributions to the peace and unity of the nation would continue to be remembered and appreciated.