President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated former President Shehu Shagari on the occasion of his 89th birthday on Tuesday.
According to Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati, the president personally wrote a congratulatory message to Shagari, praising his continued dedication to the unity and wellbeing of the country.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I write to felicitate with you as you celebrate your 89th birthday anniversary”, a part of the statement read.
“May Almighty Allah ceaselessly prosper you and bless you with robust health as you continue to give of yourself in the service of our dear nation,” the president wrote I wish you a very happy birthday and also conveyed assurances of his highest consideration and warm personal regards.
Jonathan also wrote to condole with Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero on Friday’s death of the Tafidan Kano, Alhaji Tijani Abubakar.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I write to commiserate with Your Highness, the people of Kano Emirate, and the entire people of Kano State on this sad loss”, he said, praying that Almighty Allah would grant the Emir, Alhaji Tijani’s family and the people of Kano the fortitude to cope with the painful loss of the Tafidan.
Also joinging Jonathan to eulogise ex-President Shagari were members of the Northern States Governors Foru, who described him as a statesman of uncommon pedigree.
“Shagari played politics without bitterness and placed topmost premium on the values and virtues of constitutional democracy”, Chairman of the forim and Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu said in a statement signed by his spokesman, Danladi Ndayebo.
“Shagari’s politics eschews bitterness. Even opponents concede that he is a disciplined man, whose life symbolises a rejection of the corrupting influences that distract the commitment of some leaders”.
“Shagari is the greatest statesman around today. Nigerians should emulate his exemplary life that was characterised by honesty, selflessness and the fear of God.
The forum is proud to be associated with his, especially his contributions to the deepening of the nation’s democracy. May God grant him excellent health, courage and many more years of selfless service to Nigeria and humanity”.
