Niger State Governor, Abubakar Bello, has congratulated Nigeria’s immediate past military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who clocked 74 years on Monday.
Describing him as the father of the new Nigeria, Governor Bello credited the uninterrupted democracy presently enjoyed to the solid foundation laid by the short but memorable administration of General Abubakar.
Compatriot Of Immeasurable Value
In a statement by his spokesman, he said the former Head of State’s contribution to democratic development gave birth to the current political dispensation in Nigeria.
“You are a compatriot of immeasurable value, a man whose words are his honour. Though your reign was brief, Nigeria and Nigerians are the beneficiaries of the democratic foundation you laid.
“Your singular bravery act saw to the enthronement of democracy and the re-positioning of Nigeria in the comity of nations. A committed and loyal officer, your towering credentials in the military saw you to the height of your career when in 1998, destiny placed the leadership of this country on you.
“A responsibility you delivered creditably well to the admiration of the international community. Even out of office, your track records as a lover and agent of peace saw to your appointment as Ambassador of Peace by the international community.
“Your strong conviction in peaceful resolution of conflicts has brought peace to Liberia, Niger Republic and Guinea where you have been called upon to mediate.
“Government and the good people of Niger State are proud of you. We celebrate our icon today and always, as he marks his 74th birthday and pray that Allah (SWT) will continue to preserve his life in good health as he continue to serve Allah his creator and mankind,” statement read.
Governor Bello then urged General Abubakar to continue to provide the much needed leadership and statesmanship counselling to those in authority, to enable Nigeria move out of its present precarious condition.
The former military leader was born in Minna, the Niger State’s capital on June 13, 1942 and he handed over power to a democratically elected government in 1999.
