Etsu Nupe applauds Yakubu Gowon, calls him ‘father of Nigeria’s unity’
Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and chairman of the Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, says former military head of State, Yakubu Gowon, is the father of Nigeria’s unity.
The traditional ruler stated this in an interview on Thursday in Minna in a felicitation message to Mr Gowon ahead of his 90th birthday on Saturday.
He stated that Mr Gowon was instrumental in formulating and implementing many cogent policies and programmes that have cemented Nigeria’s unity and progress.
The traditional ruler listed some of them, including the NYSC programme and unity schools.
The Etsu Nupe asaid that Mr Gowon fought on the side of Nigeria during the country’s civil war, which birthed the unity that the country is currently enjoying.
“I am elated that God, in His infinite mercy, has kept this elder statesman, Gowon, up to this moment. His wisdom, patriotism and love for Nigeria are unparalleled. Gowon has also remained resolute and committed to the Nigerian project and has never wavered,” he said.
The Etsu also described Mr Gowon as a wonderful personality and a distinguished leader renowned for his humility, integrity, and honour.
“So, I’m praying to the Almighty Allah to keep him alive so that he can continue with the good work he has been doing for Nigeria and humanity in general,” Mr Abubakar said.
(NAN)
