Buhari Extols Gowon At 85: You’re A Living Legend

Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari has described the former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon as a living legend and a symbol of national unity.

In a congratulatory message to Gowon ahead of his 85th birthday on October 19, Buhari affirmed that the former military president’s visionary leadership style, wisdom and disciplined outlook kept the country as one.

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According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina on Friday, October 18, 2019, the president extolled Gowon, who he further 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.

He 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 (NYSC).

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

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

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He noted that the former Head of State had stayed relevant in Nigeria and beyond, “and enjoys wide respect from far and near.’’

He congratulated all family members, friends and close associates of the exemplary leader on the auspicious occasion of his 85th birthday, praying that the almighty God would always remember his sacrifices for the nation.

Gowon, born 19 October 1934 is the Head of the Federal Military Government of Nigeria from 1966 to 1975. He ruled during the deadly Nigerian Civil War, which resulted to the death of almost 3 million people, most which were civilians.

He took power after one military coup d’état and was overthrown in another. During his rule, the Nigerian government was able to prevent the Biafran secession during the Civil War.

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