President Buhari Celebrates Gowon At 85

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday described former military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), as a living legend and symbol of national unity as he marks his 85th birthday on October 19.

In a statement on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Buhari said Gowon leadership style kept the country as one after the civil war.

The president extolled the former Head of State, who he described as Nigeria’s youngest leader since Independence, for faith and steadfastness in God in times of adversity, and courageously pursuing the interest of majority Nigerians for a unified and stronger country.

Buhari said Gowon laid a solid foundation for the country to thrive, with the creation of federating units, and implementation of futuristic policies like the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC).

The president noted that the scheme had consistency served the purpose of fostering unity, harmony and expanding the horizons of young Nigerians for lifetime opportunities.

He also lauded Gowon for “encouraging good governance and setting up an organization, Nigeria Prays, that consistently upholds the nation in prayers.”

President Buhari congratulated all family members, friends and close associates of the exemplary leader on the auspicious occasion of his 85th birthday.