Former Military President and Head of State of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has reflected on the distinguished path former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah David Jang, has trodden from his early days in the military where he demonstrated exemplary gallantry and discipline.

Babangida, in a goodwill message he personally signe to Jang at his 80th birthday celebration in Jos, said he was not surprised when the celebrant later embraced democratic politics and won the governorship where he served two terms as the Executive Governor of Plateau State.

“Your career stands as a testament to the ideal of public service, a virtue that seems increasingly rare in our contemporary politics.

“In my time as Military President and Head of State, I witnessed your dedication firsthand. You were among those officers who understood that the armed forces are the bedrock of national stability and you carried that ethos into your civilian governance. Your stewardship of Plateau State, both in and out of uniform, earned you the enduring respect of the people you served,” he stressed.

According to him, “Beyond the titles and the offices, I celebrate the man – Jonah David Jang. A man of principle, resilience and faith. Your ability to navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape is a legacy that many respect. In your eight decades, you have not only witnessed history but have also actively shaped it, leaving indelible footprints on the sands of Nigeria’s political and military history.”

Babangida prayed that God continues to bless Jang and his family with robust health, peace of mind and the joy of seeing the fruits of his labour in the lives of those he has mentored. “Your legacy is secure and your story will continue to inspire future generations of Nigeria leaders.”

In his address, Vice President Kashim Shettima, described Jang as a father figure whose influence extends beyond the Berom people, Plateau State, his religious faith and political affiliation.

Shettima added that the worth of a life in public service should be measured by its impact on people rather than wealth, political authority or public applause,

According to him, “The secret of a life well lived is neither the fortune we gather nor the power we hold. Life is measured by the difference we make among our people. Wealth fades. Office passes from one hand to another.

Applause is carried away by the wind. What endures is the good we leave behind in human lives.”

He thanked Jang for the uniform he wore in defence of the country, the offices he held and his continued pursuit of peace in Plateau State. He used the occasion to announce President Tinubu’s appointment of the son of the celebrant, Yakubu Jang as a Senior Special Assistant to The President.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan also appreciated Jang, wishing him good health and more fruitful years ahead.

The State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, urged children and younger generations to cultivate the culture of honouring and caring for their parents while they are still alive, describing such responsibility as both a moral obligation and a fulfillment of biblical injunctions.

Mutfwang made the call during the celebration of Jang’s 80th birthday anniversary. Speaking on the occasion, he described Senator Jang’s eight decades of life as a remarkable testimony of God’s faithfulness, preservation, grace and enduring favour.

He noted that society must learn to celebrate and appreciate distinguished leaders and elders while they are alive rather than waiting until after their passing to acknowledge their contributions.

“It is a privilege to celebrate distinguished leaders while they are still with us. We must not build a culture of waiting until people pass on before appreciating their sacrifices and contributions to society,” the Governor stated, emphasising that parents deserve love, respect, care and support in their old age, urging families to remain committed to their welfare and well-being.

He cautioned against adopting foreign social practices that encourage the abandonment of elderly parents in care homes, insisting that African family values place a premium on caring for and honouring the aged.

The Governor further prayed for God’s continued strength, good health, and long life for the elderly, noting that older generations remain invaluable reservoirs of wisdom, guidance and societal values.

He described the celebrant as a leader whose life has been defined by dedication, courage, and service, recalling his distinguished roles as Military Governor of the former Gongola State, Executive Governor of Plateau State and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In his remarks, Senator Jonah David Jang expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the grace to celebrate his 80th birthday in good health and sound mind.

The elder statesman reflected on his journey from military service to public leadership, thanking God for His unfailing grace throughout his years as Military Governor, Executive Governor of Plateau State, and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I am grateful to my family, friends, associates, and the good people of Plateau State for their prayers, counsel, and unwavering support throughout my life’s journey,” Senator Jang said, pledging to remain committed to the values of service, humility, and godliness.

The occasion attracted prominent political leaders, government officials, clergy, traditional rulers, family members, friends, and well-wishers from within and outside Plateau State who gathered to celebrate Senator Jang’s enduring legacy of leadership, service, and commitment to the growth of society.