Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has described General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), Nigeria’s former Head of State, as a statesman deserving of celebration.
Obasanjo made these remarks during a public lecture in Abuja to honor Gowon’s 90th birthday.
“90 no be joke o,” he noted, emphasizing the significance of this milestone.
The event attracted a diverse crowd, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens from all walks of life.
They came together to honor Gowon’s legacy as a symbol of national unity and resilience.
Obasanjo remarked, “This is a national celebration, and you are worthy of being celebrated while you’re still with us. Very few can claim to have witnessed your time in government or the army.”
He humorously referenced Gowon’s age, saying, “God has made you a big 90. If I were from Calabar, I would say, ‘90 no be yoke.’”
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, who chaired the event, praised Gowon’s remarkable longevity and deep wisdom.
“In our time, children were everyone’s responsibility, regardless of tribe or religion. Honesty, hard work, and selflessness were the benchmarks of our society,” he stated.
The Sultan further reflected on a time when Nigeria enjoyed peace and harmony under effective governance.
“The civil service was efficient, and society lived in peace and harmony. Not many countries are fortunate enough to have leaders live so long, with full consciousness and insight,” he added.
General Ibrahim Babangida, in a goodwill message, commended Gowon’s decency and his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development.
He urged the younger generation to learn from Gowon’s life story.
Babangida said, “I will continue to pray for him. The younger generation should learn from his life story, as he started leading this country at a tender age.”
Many dignitaries present at the event reflected on Gowon’s influence throughout his leadership, which has spanned crucial periods in Nigeria’s history.
They acknowledged his dedication to promoting unity, peace, and harmony among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
Gowon, who led Nigeria during the civil war from 1967 to 1970, has often been praised for his efforts to reconcile a divided nation.
