Tinubu honours Gowon as ‘father of national infrastructure’ on 90th birthday

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday congratulated former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, as he celebrated his 90th birthday, extolling his brilliance and contributions to Nigeria’s development.

In a special tribute to the elder statesman and one of the country’s longest-serving leaders, President Tinubu described General Gowon as a “gentleman extraordinaire.” He also referred to him as the “father of national infrastructure,” acknowledging Gowon’s significant impact on the country and his meritorious service in various capacities within and outside the military.

“As a brilliant officer trained at Sandhurst, he reluctantly became Nigeria’s leader at 32; his life story has inspired many Nigerians,” Tinubu remarked.

“As the nation’s head of state, he significantly contributed to nation-building and development and can be rightly called the father of national infrastructure. It is on record that after the country’s civil war, his philosophy of ‘No victor, no vanquished’ helped promote national healing, peace, and reconciliation,” the President added in his tribute.

Continuing, President Tinubu noted Gowon’s most remarkable legacy: the establishment of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in 1975.

“Since I became President, General Gowon has been my counsellor, offering advice when needed. He was there for us when we had a misunderstanding with some of our Sahelian states, calling for moderation from all sides for the sake of ECOWAS unity,” Tinubu stated.

The President praised Gowon’s life outside office, noting, “After his stewardship of the country, he acquired more knowledge, demonstrating that age and status are never barriers to seeking to be the best we can be.”

“General Gowon has continued to deploy his ‘Nigeria Prays’ programme in prayer and intercession for the country while also suing for religious tolerance, peace, harmony, and stability in the land.” This, President Tinubu asserted, is further testament to General Gowon’s belief in the unity and togetherness of Nigeria.

“We thank General Gowon for his leadership and his labour of service to Nigeria. His sterling example remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for us in government, encouraging us to do our best for our beloved country. We will continue to cherish his wisdom and wise counselling,” the President stated in the glowing tribute.

President Tinubu further prayed that God would imbue General Gowon with more wisdom, grant him good health, and bless him with more years to continue being useful to Nigeria and humanity.