Buhari honors Gowon at the age of 87

President Muhammadu Buhari has wished Yakubu Gowon, the former military head of state, a happy 87th birthday.

On Tuesday, the President offered his best wishes in a statement signed by his spokeswoman, Garba Shehu.

“President Buhari congratulates Gen. Yakubu on the tremendous role he continues to play in the development of the country, constantly championing peace and unity and always being a voice of reason and wisdom in good government and democracy,” according to the statement.

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“As the former Head of State celebrates his 87th birthday, the President praises and thanks the statesmanship of the Convener and National Chairman of ‘Nigeria Prays,’ whose vision for a greater country is reflected in the programs he instituted in the 1970s, such as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), state creation, and the Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation project, which has benefited millions of Nigerians.

“The President believes that God continues to guide Gen. Gowon, who began his career as a career soldier, the youngest military Chief of Staff, and the youngest Head of State before becoming a Professor of Political Science and the founder of the Yakubu Gowon Centre, which continues to support issues of good governance, infectious disease control, HIV/AIDS, and malaria.

“President Buhari joins family, friends, and Nigerians in wishing the visionary leader a longer life.”