Tinubu celebrates Yakubu Gowon at 89, says he’s a pace-setter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Yakubu Gowon, former military head of state, on his 89th birthday.

In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, his special adviser on media and publicity, Tinubu praised Gowon for establishing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and “encouraging inter-ethnic warmth”.

The president also described the former head of state as “a pace-setting attribute of leadership that all present and future Nigerian leaders must emulate”.

“The President extols General Gowon for institutionalizing the peace process in Nigeria with lasting legacies, such as laying the foundation for Nigeria’s federation through the creation of states; fostering cohesion, encouraging inter-ethnic warmth and understanding by establishing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and sustaining the pillars of harmony between Nigerians with the National Prayer Movement, which continues to inspire neighbourliness and a high degree of patriotism,” the statement reads.

“‘His love and passion for Nigeria, as well as his determination to see into manifestation the unique gifts and combined strengths of all Nigerians, irrespective of faith, tribe or any other difference, remains a pace-setting attribute of leadership that all present and future Nigerian leaders must emulate.”

Tinubu prayed for the continued well-being of Gowon and his family.

Gowon was born on October 19, 1934.

He served as the head of state between August 1, 1966 and July 29, 1975.

Gowon took over power at the age of 31 — the youngest Nigeria’s head of state.

He ruled the country during a civil war that lasted for more than two years.

Earlier this month, Gowon had to debunk the rumour of his death which was circulating on social media.