The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Prof. Patrick Dakum, has congratulated former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a distinguished elder statesman whose contributions to national unity and development remain significant.
In a goodwill message issued to mark the occasion, Prof. Dakum extended his felicitations to Gen. Gowon on behalf of his family, friends, associates, well-wishers and himself, celebrating the former Head of State for his role in shaping Nigeria’s post-civil war history.
Dakum highlighted Gowon’s commitment to national cohesion, particularly his “No Victor, No Vanquished” philosophy following the Nigerian Civil War, which emphasised reconciliation and national reintegration.
He also acknowledged the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing it as one of the enduring initiatives associated with Gowon’s administration to promote national integration and foster understanding among Nigerians from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
The IHVN chief executive further recalled the economic and infrastructural developments recorded during Gowon’s tenure, including initiatives in roads, telecommunications, agriculture, healthcare and education, as well as measures aimed at improving the welfare of civil servants.
At the regional level, Dakum commended Gowon’s decision to appoint the late Police Commissioner, Joseph Dechi Gomwalk, as the first Military Governor of Benue-Plateau State, noting that the appointment ushered in a period of notable administrative and developmental activities in the area that later became Plateau State.
He also cited Gowon’s involvement in the fight against guinea worm disease through his foundation, noting that the effort contributed to Nigeria’s campaign against the debilitating disease. Dakum specifically recalled the case of Grace Otubu, 58, from Ezra Nkwubor village in Enugu State, whom he identified as the last patient in Nigeria in November 2008.
According to him, Gowon’s faith-driven initiative, Nigeria Prays, has equally continued to inspire hope among Nigerians through prayers for national peace, progress and prosperity.
Dakum expressed the hope that the former Head of State would continue to enjoy fruitful years ahead, wishing him sound health, divine wisdom, knowledge and understanding as he sustains his fatherly role in offering guidance to the nation’s leaders.
He concluded by wishing Gen. Gowon a happy birthday, celebrating his continued relevance to conversations on national unity, peace and development.
