Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has extolled the virtues of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon who clocked 90 years yesterday.
The CDS said the discipline, dedication, patriotism and vision of the former Head of State, have continued to inspire generations of Nigerian military personnel and civilians alike.
He added that General Gowon’s exemplary service and leadership have left an indelible mark in the history of Nigeria.
The CDS said this in his congratulatory message on the occasion of General Gowon’s birthday.
In a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, yesterday, October 19, General Musa described the elder statesman as an “extraordinary leader, exemplary statesman, detribalised Nigerian and peace ambassador.”
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The CDS said: “Indeed, General Gowon’s exemplary service and leadership have left an indelible mark in the history of Nigeria.
“As 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.
“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 Nigeria’s civil war have contributed greatly to a stable and prosperous Nigeria.
“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 Armed Force of Nigeria 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.”