The Nation News

Tag: Gowon

  • ‘Seek ways of tackling Nigeria’s problems, not only Northern region – Gowon urges LND

    ‘Seek ways of tackling Nigeria’s problems, not only Northern region – Gowon urges LND

    By Yagana Ali, Yola 

    The former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has urged the  League of Northern Democrats (LND) to expand vision and plans on how to tackle the challenges facing the country, not only the northern region.

    He made this known during a courtesy visit by the league’s executives that took place at his hometown, Yola, capital of Adamawa state.

    Gowon expressed his admiration for the League of Northern Democrats efforts to unite the Northern region and address its challenges.

    The former head of state, Gowon however urged them to diversify and ensure all inclusive membership. 

    “I’m impressed with the League of Northern Democrats, particularly with the careful selection of your membership, which clearly represents all interests in the region,”.

    He commended their efforts, acknowledging the great job they’re doing in trying to unite the North and resolve its numerous problems.

    Gowon also emphasized the importance of expanding the league’s vision beyond regional boundaries, urging the League of Northern Democrats to adopt a national focus.

    “Please try to go beyond the North and make the democratic league national. Whatever it is you have in mind, your ultimate focal point should be Nigeria. We all have to come together and solve Nigeria’s problems.” He stressed.

    The Nations News Nigeria reports that the visit marked a pivotal moment for the League of Northern Democrats, reinforcing their commitment to fostering unity and addressing Nigeria’s socio-political issues. 

    The LND’s leadership expressed gratitude for General Gowon’s encouragement and pledged to continue their efforts towards national integration and development.

  • Tinubu names Gowon as father of national infrastructure

    By, Daniel Usman

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the weekend, described the former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon as father of national infrastructure and development.

    Tinubu who made this known in a statement to mark the 90th birthday celebration of the former military Head of State, Gowon, commended him for his significant contributions to nation-building and development.

    President Tinubu noted further that the celebrant, Gowon remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for those in government, which according to him is encouraging them to do their best for the country. 

    He further stated that Gowon is one of the longest-serving Nigerian leaders, and a brilliant officer, trained at Sandhurst and reluctantly became Nigeria’s leader at 32, and whose life-story has inspired many Nigerians.

    Tinubu significantly acknowledged his philosophy of “No victor, no vanquished”, which helped promote national healing, peace, and reconciliation after the country’s civil war.

    He described the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, founded in 1975 as General Gowon’s most incredible legacy.

    The president noted further that since he became the nation’s leader, General Gowon has been his counsellor, offering advice when needed. 

    He recalls his role when the ECOWAS had a misunderstanding with some of the Sahelian states, calling for moderation from all sides for the sake of ECOWAS unity.

    The president says 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, Which he points at as a further testament to his belief in the unity and togetherness of Nigeria.  

    He prayed 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.

  • Ex-President Buhari speaks on Gowon’s fight for Nigeria’s unity, progress

    By Daniel Usman 

    The former President Muhammadu Buhari has applauded the former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon for his visionary leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

    Buhari made this known in a statement signed and made public, to pay tribute to the former military Head of State, Gowon as he marks his 90th birthday.

    He 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 to a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.”

    Muhammadu Buhari said both the 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’” he said.