₦airaland Forum

Happy Birthday to a Visionary Leader!

Today, we celebrate the 90th birthday of General Yakubu Gowon, a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s history. As the former Head of State, he played a key role in shaping our nation’s industrial landscape.

We’re especially proud to acknowledge his contribution to the establishment of PAN Nigeria, where he launched the first car rolled out of our assembly plant! This milestone marked the beginning of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

General Gowon’s visionary leadership and commitment to national development continue to inspire us. We honor his legacy and wish him a joyous birthday, filled with good health, happiness, and celebration!!🎉


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WayLf1ZrKv8?si=xVCf8NDC_l_yTn9h

I am privileged to join other Nigerians of goodwill to celebrate a highly respected leader and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday anniversary.

In a time of hate, you stood for love. At a time of strife, you stood for peace. At a time of division, you stood for unity.

Your life of service to our great nation, Nigeria, stand as one of sacrifice, leadership, and unity.

Your steadfast commitment to preserving the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria during a challenging period in our history will forever be remembered and revered.

Your exemplary leadership and statesmanship remain an inspiration to younger and many generations of Nigerians.

As we celebrate this milestone, I pray that God continues to grant you good health, wisdom, and the grace of true fruitfulness.

May your legacy continue to guide us as we strive to build a more united, prosperous, and just Nigeria.

Happy 90th birthday, Sir. -PO

I join Nigerians and others to celebrate General Yakubu Gowon, a refined and uncontroversial public figure with an unwavering commitment to national unity and integrity.

Healing the wounds of the civil war through national reconciliation was one of General Gowon's greatest and indelible achievements.

He was instrumental in founding the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has helped forge socioeconomic and political integration in the sub-region.

I praise his humility and integrity, some of the remarkable virtues for which he is widely respected.

I pray that the Almighty God continues to bless him with a longer life and good health in the service of humanity. -AA

NYSC FELICITATES GOWON AT 90

The National Youth Service Corps has congratulated the founder of the 51 year old Scheme, General Dr Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) GCFR as he turns 90 years on 19th of October, 2024.

The Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General YD Ahmed, who visited the nonagenarian Statesman in his house in Abuja, expressed appreciation to God for sparing General Gowon's life over the years.

General Ahmed, who was accompanied by members of the NYSC Top Management and some Corps Members said the visit was to wish the former Head of State a happy birthday.

The Director General presented the celebrant with a life-size birthday card on behalf of the entire Staff and Corps Members nationwide.
Responding, General Gowon expressed gratitude to God for sparing his life thus far, and, appreciation to Nigerians for their goodwill towards him.

He also thanked the Director General and the entire NYSC family for the goodwill visit.

He further expressed appreciation for the dogged commitment shown by successive batches of Nigerian graduate youths for ensuring that the Scheme lived up to the ideals of nation building, unity, and integration.

Going down memory lane, General Gowon recalled the initial resistance from the youth at the inception of the NYSC. He noted that despite the initial misgivings, the Scheme had grown to become a huge success story with immense contributions to national development.

The DG along with his team, spontaneously sang the happy birthday song for the celebrating nonagenarian.

EX-PRESIDENT BUHARI PRAISES GOWON ON HIS 90th BIRTHDAY.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has
paid tribute to former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon as he marks his birthday, praising his visionary leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

In a message to General Gowon on his 90th birthday, President Buhari said the former military ruler’s far-sighted leadership and commitment to the nation’s unity and future development was praiseworthy.

“We honor his invaluable contributions to our nation's continued existence as one, and the progress that has come with that.
“Today we pay a humble tribute a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.”

Muhammadu Buhari said both old and the younger generation of Nigerians would continue to be proud of General Gowon and the officers and men he led for their courage and gallantry in preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the nation.

“I pay homage to all those who served and laid their lives for the country. Gowon and the team he led will continue to inspire the young generations and the country for a long time.”

He conveyed his strong appreciation for the resolute dedication of the former Head of State as he continues to offer service to the nation and its people, including “the admirable role he plays in leading his pet project ‘Nigeria Prays.’”

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES GENERAL GOWON ON HIS NONAGINTENNIAL YEAR ANNIVERSARY

TRIBUTE TO GENERAL GOWON AT 90

On his 90th birthday (October 19), I pay special tribute to our elder statesman and former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon.

General Gowon is a gentleman extraordinaire, one of the longest-serving Nigerian leaders.

He did a lot for our country and served meritoriously in various capacities within and outside the military.

As a brilliant officer trained at Sandhurst and reluctantly became Nigeria's leader at 32, his life story has inspired many Nigerians.

As the nation's head of state, he significantly contributed to nation-building and development and can be rightly called the father of national infrastructure.

It is on record that after the country's civil war, his philosophy of "No victor, no vanquished" helped promote national healing, peace, and reconciliation.

His most incredible legacy was the Economic Community of West African States,
ECOWAS, founded in 1975.

Since I became President, General Gowon has been my counsellor, offering advice when needed.

He was there for us when we had a misunderstanding with some of our Sahelian states, calling for moderation from all sides for the sake of ECOWAS unity.

General Gowon's life outside the office is also remarkable. After stewardship of the country, he acquired more knowledge, demonstrating that age and status are never barriers to seeking to be the best we can be.

General Gowon has continued to deploy his"Nigeria Prays' Programme in prayer and intercession for the country while also suing for religious tolerance, peace, harmony and stability in the land.

This is a further testament to his belief in the unity and togetherness of Nigeria.

We thank General Gowon for his leadership and his labour of service to Nigeria.

His sterling example remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for us in government, encouraging us to do our best for our beloved country.

We will continue to cherish his wisdom and wise counselling.

I pray that God Almighty will imbue General Gowon with more wisdom and grant him good health and more years to continue to be useful to Nigeria and humanity.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

19 October, 2024

’90 no be joke’: Obasanjo, Sultan, IBB celebrate Gowon as icon of unity

October 18, 2024

By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo praised General Yakubu Gowon (rtd) Nigeria’s former Head of State, as a statesman worthy of celebration. He noted that few can claim to have witnessed his time in government or the army.

He made this statement at a public lecture in Abuja marking Gowon’s 90th birthday on Friday evening.

The event brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the country to honour Gowon’s legacy as a symbol of national unity and perseverance.

Obasanjo said: “This is a national celebration, and you are worthy of being celebrated while you’re still with us. Very few can claim to have witnessed your time in government or the army.

“But by God’s grace, you have lived long enough for us to honour you today.”

He humorously remarked on Gowon’s milestone, saying, “God has made you a big 90. If I were from Calabar, I would say, ’90 no be yoke’.'”

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, who chaired the event, highlighted Gowon’s exceptional longevity and institutional wisdom.

“In our time, children were everyone’s responsibility, regardless of tribe or religion. Honesty, hard work, and selflessness were the benchmarks of our society.

“The civil service was efficient, and society lived in peace and harmony. Not many countries are fortunate enough to have leaders live so long, with full consciousness and insight,” he added.

IBB

General Ibrahim Babangida, in a goodwill message, praised Gowon’s decency and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development, urging the younger generation to learn from his life story.

Babangida said “I will continue to pray for him. The younger generation should learn from his life story, as he started leading this country at a tender age.”

Other dignitaries from various sectors who attended the public lecture reflected on Gowon’s broad influence and respect.

They celebrated his leadership, which spanned critical periods in Nigeria’s history, for promoting unity, peace, and harmony.

Jonathan celebrates Gowon at 90

18th October 2024

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Nigeria’s former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon on his 90th birthday.

Jonathan described Gowon as a model leader worthy of emulation, particularly for his pivotal role in steering Nigeria through the 1967-1970 civil war.

Jonathan made these remarks during a virtual address at an event held to celebrate Gowon’s 90th birthday at the Economic Community of West African States Secretariat in Abuja on Friday.

Reflecting on Gowon’s leadership during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent periods, Jonathan said, “We wish General Gowon well.

“For those of us around my age and others, when you hear his name, what comes to mind is the Civil War. I was about five years old and in primary school at the time. He led the country through those challenges.”

Jonathan also shared that he had gained valuable insights from Gowon during meetings with former heads of state, commending the former leader for his peaceful nature.

“He always prioritised the unity and progress of this country. A true test of a good general is during a war, and Gowon showed his peaceful disposition, feeling the pain of his people and doing what was right during the Civil War. Even in council meetings, I’ve listened to him and learned a lot from his wisdom,” Jonathan added.

The celebration attracted numerous dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by former SGF Boss Mustapha; and former Senate President Bukola Saraki. Other prominent attendees included the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

CDS Musa salutes Gowon on 90th birthday

by Jacob Segun Olatunji October 19, 2024

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa congratulated General Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State and elder statesman, as he marked his 90th birthday.

This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Saturday by Director Defence Information, DDI, Major Gen Tukur Gusau.

According to the statement, the CDS noted with delight that as the Nigeria’s Head of State from 1966 to 1975, General Gowon played a key role in promoting and maintaining Nigeria’s peace and unity despite all the challenges of the period.

The statement reads “Indeed, General Gowon’s exemplary service and leadership have left an indelible mark in the history of Nigeria. It is on record that his vision and commitment on peace and national reconciliation since his famous speech ‘no victor, no vanquish’ at the end of the Nigeria’s civil war have contributed greatly for a stable and prosperous Nigeria.

“As a detribalised Nigerian and peace ambassador, it is worthy to mention that General Gowon has sustained his good work to humanity through his NGO, the Yakubu Gowon Foundation.

“In recognition of the former Head of State’s numerous contributions to the country, the AFN honours his enduring legacy. His virtues of discipline, dedication and patriotism as well as vision of a united Nigeria continue to inspire generations of Nigerian military personnel and civilians alike.

“As he celebrates this milestone, the AFN wishes him continued good health, happiness and peace. Happy 90th birthday to an extraordinary leader and an exemplary statesman.”

On behalf of my family and followers, I join other well-wishers to salute General Yakubu Gowon on reaching the great milestone of his 90th birthday.

As a distinguished Nigerian, the life of General Gowon is defined by his sacrifice of life for the unity and dignity of the country.

We reflect on his selfless service to Nigeria and imbibe the lessons of unity, doggedness and magnanimity.

May this special occasion bring joy and wellbeing to General Gowon. - RMK

GOODWILL MESSAGE: GENERAL YAKUBU GOWON AT 90

It gladdens my heart to celebrate a patriotic Nigerian, statesman and a pathfinder at 90.

General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), former Head of State of Nigeria, wears nobility upon himself in the onerous service to our nation.

His footprints remain indelible. Notable among those is his great initiative of the National Youths Service Corps which was designed to perfectly give every young person a touch of unity in our diversity while proudly being clad with the badge of honour to serve our nation.

On behalf of the people and government of Ondo state, I congratulate the General who's not tired to serve our country even at 90.

May the Lord keep him healthy and strong to witness more years of meritorious service to humanity.

Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa
Governor of Ondo State.

femi4:
The dictator
The brain behind asaba massacre

Happy 90th Birthday to General Yakubu Gowon. He was born on October 19, 1934. A remarkable retired Nigerian military leader who served as Head of State from 1966 to 1975. Today, we honor him as a living elder statesman whose leadership and legacy continue to inspire our nation.

Wishing him many more years of good health and happiness!

The General will always be remembered for the role he played in keeping this great country as one and unbreakable. Happy 90th birthday, Sir.

naptu2:
PAN Nigeria Limited @PanNigeriaLtd

FARMER GOVERNOR UMARU BAGO SALUTES GEN. GOWON @90


Niger State Governor, farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, congratulates the former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) on his 90th birthday.

In a birthday message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, farmer Governor Umaru Bago describes the former Nigeria's leader as a symbol of humility, unity, and patriotism.

He recalls the remarkable leadership the celebrant offered to the nation where he initiated and implemented policies for peace building and unity of the country.

The farmer Governor says no doubt, Gen. Gowon is an elder statesman, who has written his name in gold and posterity will be kind to him.

He says it is delightful to celebrate a great leader with high moral standard on his birthday.

The farmer Governor prays that God will continue to protect General Gowon, keep him in good health, and grant him more wisdom for the continuous benefit of humanity.

Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary
to the Governor of Niger State
18/10/2024.

onuman:
Visionary leader? I comment my reserve.
A Visionary who now has no hometown to rest in peace, as armd Fulani herdsmen and Islamic insurgents have turned his hometown into a shooting range!!

Goodwill Message By Pastor Paul Adefarasin Celebrating Gen. Yakubu Gowon @ 90


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sx2UQATjELA?si=U1mDwJInapOIkIh-

trutharena:
Atiku wey no fit pay PAN wey don go celebrate