Former President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari played host to former Nigerian leaders in Sokoto, the capital of Sokoto State, as he marked his 90th birthday.
Among those present were President Goodluck Jonathan, former military Head of States, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar and Yakubu Gowon as well as former military and civilian ruler, Olusegun Obasanjo.
Also present was the Head of the interim national government of 1993, Earnest Shonekan.
It was a happy happy gathering of the Council of State, with the exception of former military Head of State and current presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari, who was said to be on a trip to the UK.
In his speech, Shagari extolled President Goodluck Jonathan on his performance in the handling of national affairs and urged him not to relent.
Meanwhile, on a day prior to Alhaji Shagari’s birthday, President Jonathan had eulogised the former President as a committed patriot and outstanding leader, adding that the present administration would continue to count on his support and solidarity.
Writing to felicitate with Alhaji Shagari on the occasion of his 90th birthday, President Jonathan prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to bless the former President with good health and long life.
“As you celebrate this historic day, it is my prayer that Almighty Allah continues to prosper you and imbue you with robust health as you continue to give of yourself in the service of our dear nation,” the President wrote in a birthday message to Alhaji Shagari.
He wished him very happy birthday celebrations.