
photo credit: Nigerian Voice
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s performance in office, stating that the Nigerian leader is making significant efforts to address key challenges facing the country.
Gowon made the remarks on Sunday after a courtesy visit to the President at the State House in Abuja. He said the visit was aimed at appreciating the administration’s efforts and encouraging Tinubu in his leadership.
According to the elder statesman, the country is making progress under Tinubu’s leadership in several areas, including the economy and governance.
“I came to see him and to thank him for all the good work he is doing for the country. We discussed the progress Nigeria is making economically and in other areas,” Gowon told journalists after the meeting.
The former military ruler, who led Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, expressed satisfaction with the direction of the current administration, noting that the President appears to be addressing challenges across different sectors.
When asked to identify areas where the government could improve, Gowon declined to single out any specific sector, saying the President is already doing his best in managing national issues.
“Isn’t he doing the best he can all round? There is no particular area to point to because he is working across the political, economic and social sectors,” he said.
Gowon also acknowledged the country’s ongoing security challenges but maintained that the President is taking necessary steps to address them.
“The major problem we have today is security, and he is doing everything possible to deal with it for the good of all Nigerians,” he added.
He stressed that national leadership requires balancing several priorities at the same time and ensuring that the country’s interests are protected in all areas.
“He has to look after the interests of Nigeria in all sectors, and I am happy about that,” Gowon said.
Asked about the message he would give Nigerians amid the country’s current difficulties, the elder statesman said addressing such challenges ultimately lies with the government, expressing confidence in the administration’s efforts.
“The government, led by the President, is doing the best it can to handle the situation without creating additional problems for Nigerians and for the country,” he said.
Gowon expressed optimism that the government’s actions would eventually bring the peace and stability Nigeria needs.
“The government is handling the situation as best as it can to ensure that Nigeria ultimately achieves the peace it deserves,” he said.
The visit comes as President Tinubu continues consultations with prominent national leaders on issues relating to governance, security and national development.