Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, of Niger State

By Aliyu Lawal

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, has showered encomium on thẹ former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on his 91st birthday descibing him as an epitome of peace.

This is contained in a statement issued to Newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim in Minna.

The statement described the celebrant as humble, honest, full of wisdom, and an icon of patriotism and unity.

The Governor however recount the several initiatives introduced by General Yakubu Gowon aimed at fostering national unity, integration and development.

According to him some of these initiatives are still making positive impacts fifty one years after he left office, insisting that General Gowon has no doubt written his name in the sands of time, as his impact on Nigeria and Nigerians cannot be over emphasised nor ignored.

"Am happy that God has blessed him with longevity. I pray that God will continue to uphold him and grant him the strength to continue to provide wise counsel for younger generations," he said.