President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led an outpouring of tributes on Friday to honor former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who marked his 90th birthday.
The anniversary celebration, held at the ECOWAS Commission auditorium in Abuja, was attended by an array of dignitaries, youth groups, women organizations, and top government officials.
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu praised Gowon as a beacon of unity and a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience in the face of challenges. He emphasized Gowon’s role in fostering the nation’s togetherness and commended his lifetime of service to national unity.
“General Yakubu Gowon embodies Nigeria’s aspiration to remain united in the pursuit of a shared future,” Tinubu stated. “He is a sterling example of leadership who served with distinction and gave his best to the nation.”
Tinubu further lauded Gowon’s post-civil war philosophy of reconciliation, encapsulated in the famous slogan “No victor, no vanquished.” He also commended the former leader’s continued dedication to national harmony through initiatives like the Nigeria Prays Programme.
Buhari, Obasanjo, and Others Pay Tribute
Former President Muhammadu Buhari also joined in celebrating Gowon, acknowledging his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to national unity. Buhari praised Gowon’s efforts during Nigeria’s turbulent years, highlighting his determination to preserve the country’s territorial integrity during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970).
“We celebrate a man whose leadership ensured Nigeria’s survival as one nation,” Buhari remarked. “His courage and dedication remain an inspiration to future generations.”
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who referred to Gowon as his mentor and “boss,” described the occasion as a national celebration. Obasanjo stressed that Gowon’s contributions to building modern Nigeria deserved to be honored while he is still alive. “Turning 90 is no small feat, and Gowon’s impact on our national development is profound,” he said.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, chaired the event and reflected on Gowon’s leadership during a difficult period in Nigeria’s history. “Gowon symbolizes unity, humility, and accommodation,” the Sultan said. “His tenure as leader came at a critical time after the 1966 military coups, and he laid the foundation for the continuity and stability we have today.”
The Sultan praised Gowon’s role in ensuring Nigeria remained intact during the civil war, noting that the nation is fortunate to still benefit from his wisdom. “Leaders like Gowon are custodians of institutional memory. We owe him a debt of gratitude for preserving the country’s unity,” he added.
Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to National Development
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who also serves as chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, extolled Gowon’s patriotism, describing him as “an architect of national unity.” Yahaya noted that Gowon’s legacy of reconciliation and peace has inspired generations of leaders and called on Nigerians to emulate his example.
Akinwunmi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank, delivered the keynote address titled “Building a Global Nigeria.” Adesina praised Gowon’s life as a model of service but lamented that Nigeria has yet to achieve its full potential, despite abundant natural and human resources.
“Sixty-four years after independence, Nigeria should not still be a developing country,” Adesina said. “It is time we think of Nigeria not just in terms of our current challenges but as a leader responsible for lifting all of Africa.”
Adesina urged Nigerians to rise to the occasion, emphasizing that the continent’s progress depends on Nigeria. “We must strive to end poverty and ensure our nation fulfills its potential,” he added. “I remain optimistic that Nigeria will overcome its challenges, rise, and shine.”
Gowon’s Legacy: Leadership, War, and Rebuilding
General Yakubu Gowon rose to power in 1966, becoming Head of State at the young age of 32, following two military coups that plunged the nation into uncertainty.
His leadership was tested during the Nigerian Civil War, a conflict that lasted 30 months and cost over two million lives. Through his resolve, Nigeria’s unity was restored by 1970.
After the war, Gowon initiated several reforms, including the creation of 12 states from the former regional structure, the establishment of federal unity schools, and the launch of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), which remains a pillar of national integration to this day.
Gowon’s tenure ended in 1975 when he was overthrown in a military coup while attending an African Union summit in Kampala, Uganda. However, he has continued to serve Nigeria through various initiatives, including his Nigeria Prays campaign, which promotes prayer for the nation’s peace and stability.
The event concluded with goodwill messages from various dignitaries, with attendees reaffirming their commitment to building a united and prosperous Nigeria. “Gowon’s legacy reminds us of the importance of peace, unity, and service to humanity,” Governor Yahaya remarked.
As Nigeria celebrated Gowon’s 90th birthday, the sentiment was clear: the nation remains grateful for the contributions of a leader whose impact continues to resonate across generations.
