•  Lawmakers eulogise ex-President

President Goodluck Jonathan says former President Shehu Shagari is a role model to Nigerian leaders, especially members of the National Council of State.

‘’He is a role model, always very calm and always want Nigeria to grow and be united, ‘’ Jonathan said.

Jonathan spoke in Sokoto yesterday when he led four other former heads of state to felicitate with Shagari on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

‘’Shagari has been diligently serving Nigeria in many capacities since his youthful age. He has been working diligently and tirelessly too to keep Nigeria one and peaceful, and he has never stopped,’’ he added.

While congratulating Shagari on the occasion, the President prayed God to continue to give the former President wisdom, piety and strength to work for the unity and peace of Nigeria.

All the four former heads of state on the entourage also eulogised Shagari at 90, saying that, he is an elder statesman to the core.

The former leaders include retired Generals Yakubu Gowon, Ibrahim Babangida, and Abdulsalam Abubakar, as well as Chief Ernest Shonekan.

The leaders agreed that Nigerians have a lot to learn from Shagari as he had served the nation with humility, patriotism and dedication.

They described their visit as historic and a token appreciation of his tremendous contributions to the socio-economic development, peace and unity of Nigeria.

In his response, Shagari commended Jonathan and the former heads of state for the gesture, saying that it would spur him to do more for the nation.

‘’ We will continue to support Jonathan to work for the country and move it forward, ‘’ Shagari said.

The occasion featured the presentation of a birthday card signed by the leaders, to the celebrant and cutting of a birthday cake by Shagari.

Also yesterday, the House of Representatives, congratulated Shagari, describing him as man who promotes tenets of democracy in the country.

House Leader, Rep. Mulikat Akande-Adeola (Oyo, PDP) said it was necessary to appreciate the former President in view of his numerous contributions towards nation building.

Similarly, the Deputy Leader of the House, Leo Ogor (Delta, PDP) praised Shagari for great wisdom in contributing to the country’s unity and development.

“He is a man who has contributed so much to our unity as a nation and humility has always remained his second name,” Ogor added.

Also, the House Minority Whip, Samson Osagie (Edo,APC) described Shagari as a true democrat.

Osagie said: “Every known democrat must recognise Shagari. His contributions to the growth of our country cannot be overemphasises. Shagari represented a symbol of true democracy and has remained concerned that Nigeria remains democratic,’’ Osagie said.

Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, who presided over the plenary, prayed God to grant the former President and his family long life, while members sang happy birthday songs.