By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Tinubu has celebrated former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on his 66th birthday, describing him as icon of democracy in Nigeria and Africa.
A presidency statement on Sunday said Tinubu hailed Jonathan for his “unique demonstration of statesmanship and for his distinguishing achievement as a leader, who gave Nigeria and Africa, a pride of place in democratic lore by upending the vitiating paradigm of those who seek to hold onto power by all means”.
President Tinubu said the former president is “one of our icons of democracy, whose humility continues to inspire hope for good governance in the country and on the continent”.
According to the statement issued by presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu believes the former President possesses a “distinguished profile on leadership, rising up the ladder as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice-President and President, and now championing the cause of peace in Africa by bringing together and counselling leaders on harmonious co-existence for the benefit of the people they serve”.
Ngelale added that “the President commends former President Jonathan for committing himself to the service of humanity and to strengthening democratic institutions, exemplified by his relentless peace missions and advocacy of non-violence in the peaceful transition of power across the African continent.
“As the former President clocks 66, President Tinubu affirms that his wisdom, foresight, and patriotism will continue to set an example for leaders aspiring to make a difference in Nigeria and beyond.
“The President prays that God Almighty will continually sustain the former President and his wife, Patience, in good health and strength.”
