By Stanley Onyekwere
The Institute for Governance and Leadership Studies in Africa (IGLSA), has stressed the need for Nigerians to emulate legacy of former Head of state, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), who symbolises inclusiveness and unity.
Director General of IGLSA, Dr. Lanre Adebayo, made this assertion at a dinner organised by the institute, in honour of Gowon, as he clocked 85 years, at weekend, in Abuja.
Adebayo, who described Gowon as man of unwaivering commitment to excellence and service to nationhood, said the ex-leader left aegacy of good governance and inclusive leadership.
According to him, inclusiveness and unity are at the core of IGLSA, hence the need to recognise and celebrate anyone who represents such virtues, in order for others to emulate.
Similarly, father of the day, former National Chairman, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, described Gowon as living legend, who piloted the affairs of the nation during the most trublent time of Nigeria.
He recalled that Gowon introduced the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to foster national unity and cohesion and promulgated the Indigenisation and Nationalisation Decree to empower Nigerians to benefit from the newly found black gold (crude oil).
In his remarks, the Guest Speaker, Gov. Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, said Gowon was one of the few public figure he cherished and admired, adding that Gowon had mentored many people across faith.
Delivering the dinner lecture on the topic, “Leadership in Trouble Times,” Fayemi described Gowon as a very honest and humble person who dedicated himself to the service of the country at the early stage of his life.
He opined that the ex military Head of state has set a standard for the younger generation especially those aiming for political posts to emulate.
