It was an atmosphere of jubilation as family, friends, and well-wishers gathered at the National Christian Centre to celebrate the 90th birthday of General Yakubu Gowon, former head of state of Nigeria.
The service was graced by prominent Nigerians, including former presidents, current leaders, and clergymen.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who represented former presidents, stated, “When I am asked to speak about Gowon, it is something like carrying a load too heavy for you.” Jonathan reflected on Gowon’s influence on Nigeria, recalling his early life during Gowon’s presidency.
“When Gowon became head of state, I was in primary four. There was no social media; there was no television. But the clergy did wonderfully well,” he added, acknowledging the limited means of communication during that era.
Jonathan described Gowon as a “peace ambassador par excellence,” highlighting his commitment to national unity and the principle that “to keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.”
The former President enumerated the challenges faced during Gowon’s youth and how his leadership during the Nigerian Civil War helped preserve the nation’s integrity—an assertion that resonated deeply with the audience.
“Today, we are talking about ‘not too young to run’; Gowon was head of state at the age of 32. If he was not somebody that has that gift of leadership, I am not sure Nigeria would have been won today,” Jonathan remarked, encapsulating Gowon’s decisive role in shaping the nation’s trajectory. The former president’s reflection not only celebrated Gowon’s past but also acknowledged the youth in leadership, a poignant connection to the event’s overarching theme.
Also, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo stated, “General Gowon embodies all that we expect of leadership. The fear of God, humility, honesty, integrity.” He reminisced about lining the streets to watch Gowon’s convoy, exuding admiration for a leader who remained committed to the gospel and Christian values long after leaving office.
Osinbajo pointed out the significance of Gowon’s legacy, describing him as still “a very young man” with much left to accomplish.
“You are just 90, so you still have very, very many years to go,” the former Vice President said while quoting biblical references to underline Gowon’s potential for further contributions to the nation and beyond.
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also shared her personal reflections about Gowon’s influence on her childhood.
“I was just a little girl of six when you became the head of state,” she reminisced, depicting the deep impact Gowon’s leadership had on the nation. She emphasised that Gowon’s life exemplifies “simplicity, humility, grace, dignity, and patriotism.”
The First Lady expressed gratitude for Gowon’s support and encouragement to current leaders, admitting the “infectious love for country” displayed by the former president. “I want to thank you for your kindness, love, and support to me and Mr. President,” she acknowledged, further stressing the bonds that Gowon cultivated within the fabric of Nigerian life.
Also, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, noted, “His Excellency General Yakubu Gowon has been an example of what we mean by bringing righteousness into governance.” Okoh commended Gowon’s humility and his efforts in the Nigeria Praise initiative aimed at mobilising citizens for collective prayer and action.
“The rallies you led across the states have fostered a spirit of unity and resilience among our citizens,” he said, recognising the importance of faith in addressing the nation’s challenges. “We pray… that the younger generation and those who aspire to political leadership will always see you as an encouragement.”
The service featured reflection, prayer, and worship, reminding attendees that despite the challenges Nigeria faces, the resolute spirit of unity championed by leaders like Gowon continues to inspire hope for the future.
Osinbajo, while concluding, said, “As your days, so shall your strength, so shall your wisdom, so shall your favour with God.”