Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Sunday felicitated with former President and elder Statesman, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, on his 92nd birthday.
Yakubu Dogara, Speaker of the House of Representatives and former President Goodluck Jonathan had similarly congratulated Shagari.
In a statement by Mr Laolu Akande, his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Osinbajo said he joined all Nigerians and Shagari’s family in celebrating selfless service, leadership and steadfast commitment to Nigeria.
He said that decades after serving as the second republic President of Nigeria, Shagari had continued to advance the unity, peace and prosperity of the nation.
According to him, the patriotism, principles and lofty values the former President displayed throughout his public life as teacher, politician, parliamentarian, president and now, as elder statesman, make him one of the foremost national leaders.
The acting president expressed confidence that the honesty and strength of character with which Shagari had been known, would continue to be a source of inspiration.
While wishing the nonagenarian many happy returns of the day “in good health and joy”, he said that prayer for the former president was that as his days were, so shall his strength and favour be.
In a congratulatory message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Turaki Hassan, Dogara noted that Shagari served Nigeria selflessly and always put the country first.
“Former president Shagari is an embodiment of humility and selfless service, a father of all and pillar of support.
“We celebrate him today as he marks his 92nd birthday.
“He has been a source of wisdom to all who go to him for counsel and remains a shining example of how leaders should be.
“On this special day, I pray that the almighty God continues to guide him and keep him in perfect health as he continues to age gracefully,” Dogara said.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan felicitated with Shagari.
A statement by his Media Adviser, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, on Saturday in Abuja, Jonathan described Shagari as “a man of honour and unmatched dignity, who left enduring legacy as President”.
The former president said that in an out of office, Shagari has continued to inspire generations of Nigerians through his patriotism, selflessness, simplicity and unwavering commitment to the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“You diligently served your nation as a teacher, parliamentarian and President.
“You have continued to serve her, even in your old age, as an elder statesman and sage who calmly offers his wise counsel on national issues.
“Your Excellency, in your wisdom you envisioned a great nation and I pray to God to grant you more fruitful years to see Nigeria attain that enviable height we all desire.”
Shagari, Turakin Sokoto, was born on Feb. 25, 1925. He was elected president of Nigeria in 1979.
Source – NAN