Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has lauded former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, as he marked his 90th birthday, calling for a national celebration in his honor.
Obasanjo made the remarks during the 90th Birthday Lecture for Gowon in Abuja on Friday.
Obasanjo expressed his gratitude to God on behalf of Gowon, attributing the former leader’s long life to divine grace.
“This is a national celebration and you are worthy to be nationally celebrated while you are still alive,” Obasanjo stated.
Reflecting on their shared history, he added, “I look at the galaxy of distinguished men and women around, only very few of them can claim to be eyewitnesses to your time in government, not to talk of your time in the army.”
The former president also acknowledged his own opportunity to witness Gowon’s leadership, thanking God for granting them both long life.
“By the grace of God who has given you the longevity of life and who has given me a little bit to be following you, I will just thank God on your behalf that God has made you to reach 90,” Obasanjo concluded.