President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to General Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State, on the occasion of his 90th birthday, celebrating his remarkable contributions to Nigeria's history and development. Reflecting on General Gowon's life and legacy, President Tinubu lauded him as a gentleman extraordinaire and one of the nation's longest-serving leaders, whose life story has inspired countless Nigerians.
General Gowon, who ascended to Nigeria's leadership at the age of 32, is recognized for his significant role in nation-building and his lasting contributions to national infrastructure development. A brilliant officer trained at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, his leadership during and after the Nigerian civil war marked a period of profound healing and reconciliation. His famous "No victor, no vanquished" policy fostered a spirit of unity, emphasizing peace and national cohesion.
Among his enduring legacies is the founding of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in 1975, a testament to his vision for regional integration and cooperation. President Tinubu praised General Gowon's continuous service to the nation, especially his advisory role during delicate diplomatic situations, such as recent tensions with Sahelian states, where he advocated for moderation to preserve ECOWAS unity.
General Gowon's post-leadership journey is equally commendable, as he pursued further education and launched the "Nigeria Prays" program, demonstrating his dedication to peace, religious tolerance, and stability in Nigeria. President Tinubu highlighted Gowon's life as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for government officials, reinforcing the commitment to serve the country with integrity.
As General Gowon celebrates his nonagenarian milestone, President Tinubu expressed gratitude for his leadership and service, praying for God to continue to grant him good health, wisdom, and the strength to remain an enduring asset to Nigeria and humanity.
— **Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR**
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