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The Northern Governors’ Forum has commended retired General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State, for his immense contributions toward addressing insecurity and the sustenance of peaceful coexistence in the country.
Mr Simon Lalong, the Chairman of the forum and Governor of Plateau, made the commendation in a statement issued by Dr Makut Macham on Wednesday to congratulate General Gowon on his 88th birthday.
“Gen. Gowon has played critical roles in his interventions with members of the forum towards addressing the issues of insecurity, peace, unity and religious harmony within the northern region and the entire country,” the statement read.
It noted that Gen. Gowon, apart from fighting to keep Nigeria one, has remained a father to the nation many years after leaving office and continues to support successive administrations.
The chairman noted Gowon’s contributions through prayers, counsel and strategic engagement towards addressing the nation’s challenges is highly appreciated.
It also said that Gowon is one of the most refined and patriotic leaders that Nigeria has produced, saying that he epitomises humility, humanity, and goodwill.
According to the statement, General Gowon had been touching the lives of the most vulnerable persons in society by bringing succour to their plight through his foundation.
The statement explained that for General Gowon to mobilise resources to assist indigents in society, the action has attracted the inputs of local and global partners.
Gov. Lalong believed that his humanitarian services were contributing in tackling diseases, illiteracy, poverty and hunger among Nigerians.
He also believed that the activities of General Gowon had attracted the attention of government, donor agencies and non-governmental organisations to neglected but important issues and commended him for instituting and sustaining a national spiritual intercession programme — Nigeria Prays — to pray for the unity, progress and stability of the country.
The forum prayed for many more years of good health, wisdom and God’s protection to General Gowon, while urging him to continue to remain a worthy ambassador for the region and the country.