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On a momentous occasion filled with gratitude and reflective joy, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (rtd) celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday with a thanksgiving service attended by notable figures from all walks of life.
The event, held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, drew former presidents, vice presidents, governors and senators and a host of admirers who gathered to honour a man whose impact on Nigeria’s political development remains profound.
Prominent figures took turns to extol the virtues of the man who led Nigeria during a tumultuous period in its history.
The celebration came alive as former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, took to the podium to laud Gowon’s exemplary leadership. His words resonated deeply with attendees, reflecting on how Gowon, at just 32 years old, took on the monumental task of steering Nigeria through one of its most turbulent eras—the three-year civil war
Jonathan, who spoke on behalf of past presidents, stated, “When I am asked to speak about Gowon, it is something like carrying a load too heavy.”
He reflected on Gowon’s influence on Nigeria, recalling his early life during Gowon’s presidency.
“When Gowon became Head of State, I was in Primary 4. There was no social media; there was no television. But the clergy did wonderfully well,” he added.
Jonathan described Gowon as a “peace ambassador par excellence,” highlighting his commitment to national unity and the principle of “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.”
He articulated the challenges faced during Gowon’s youth and how his leadership during the civil war helped preserve the nation’s integrity—an assertion that resonated deeply with the audience.
The former president’s reflection not only celebrated Gowon’s past but also acknowledged the youth in leadership, a poignant connection to the event’s overarching theme.
Former vice president Yemi Osinbajo reechoed Jonathan’s sentiments, stating, “General Gowon embodies all that we expect of leadership. The fear of God, humility, honesty, integrity.”
He reminisced on lining the streets to watch Gowon’s convoy, exuding admiration for a leader who remained committed to the gospel and Christian values long after leaving office.
Osinbajo highlighted the significance of Gowon’s legacy, referring to him as still “a very young man” with much left to accomplish.
“You are just 90, so you still have very, very many years to go,” he said.
First lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, shared her personal reflections about Gowon’s influence on her childhood.
“I was just a little girl of six when you became the Head of State,” she said, emphasising that Gowon’s life exemplifies “simplicity, humility, grace, dignity, and patriotism.”
Mrs. Tinubu’s remarks also included gratitude for Gowon’s support and encouragement to current leaders, admitting the “infectious love for country” displayed by the former president.
“I want to thank you for your kindness, love, and support to me and Mr. President,” she said.
In a poignant address, president of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, noted, “His Excellency General Yakubu Gowon has been an example of what we mean by bringing righteousness into governance.”
Okoh commended Gowon’s humility and his efforts in the Nigeria Praise initiative aimed at mobilising citizens for collective prayer and action.
“The rallies you led across the states have fostered a spirit of unity and resilience among our citizens. We pray that the younger generation and those who aspire to political leadership will always see you as an encouragement,” he said.
The service culminated in moments of reflection, prayer and worship, reminding attendees that despite the challenges Nigeria faces, the resolute spirit of unity championed by leaders like Gowon continues to inspire hope for the future.
As the congregation sang hymns of praise and gratitude, the atmosphere was intense with reverence for Gowon’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria, embodying both the struggles and triumphs that have marked the nation’s journey.
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