Buhari congratulates Gowon at 85

By Bimbo Ogunnaike

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated  former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon for reaching the age of 85.

Buhari’s message to Gowon is contained in a statement made available to media houses on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.

“As Nigeria’s youngest leader since Independence, President Buhari affirms that Gen. Gowon’s visionary leadership style, wisdom and disciplined outlook kept the country as one, extolling the former Head of State for faith and steadfastness in God in times of adversity, and courageously pursuing the interest of majority Nigerians for a unified and stronger country,” the statement reads

The statement said the elder statesman 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, that has consistently served the purpose of fostering unity, harmony and expanding the horizons of young Nigerians for lifetime opportunities.

The President, who noted  that the former Head of State has stayed relevant in Nigeria and beyond, and enjoys wide respect from far and near, congratulated all family members, friends and close associates of the exemplary leader on the auspicious occasion of his 85th birthday.

Buhari prayed that the Almighty God will always remember his sacrifices for the nation, and grant him longer life, good health, and strength to keep working for the good of country and humanity.