Former President Muhammadu Buhari has honored General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Military Head of State, as he marks his 90th birthday.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari praised Gowon’s visionary leadership, emphasizing his pivotal role in unifying Nigeria during a critical period. The former president acknowledged Gowon’s immense contributions to the nation’s unity and progress, stating, “We salute his wisdom and unwavering commitment to keeping Nigeria together.”
Buhari highlighted Gowon’s successful governance, particularly his efforts to implement the National Youth Service Corps scheme, which continues to promote national unity. He expressed gratitude for Gowon’s enduring influence, adding, “His leadership, courage, and service to Nigeria will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.”
General Gowon will celebrate his 90th birthday on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Buhari also commended the former leader for his ongoing commitment to Nigeria through initiatives like ‘Nigeria Prays,’ emphasizing his lasting impact on the country’s social and political landscape.
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Yakubu Dan-Yumma “Jack” Gowon GCFR was born on 19 October 1934 is a Nigerian former Head of State and statesman who led the Federal military government war efforts during the Nigerian Civil War.
Gowon delivered the famous “no victor, no vanquished” speech at the war’s end to promote healing and reconciliation. The Nigerian Civil War is listed as one of the deadliest in modern history, with some accusing Gowon of crimes against humanity and genocide. Gowon has maintained that he committed no wrongdoing during the war and that his leadership saved the country.
An Anglican Christian from a minority Ngas ethnic group of Northern Nigeria, Gowon is a Nigerian nationalist, and a believer in the unity and oneness of Nigeria Gowon’s rise to power followed the July 1966 counter-coup and cemented military rule in Nigeria. Consequently, Gowon served for the longest continuous period as head of state of Nigeria, ruling for almost nine years until his overthrow in the coup d’état of 1975 by Brigadier Murtala Mohammed.
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