Former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, has explained the reason behind his visit to Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday, stating that the president is doing his best to move the country forward.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Gowon said the visit was mainly to express appreciation for the efforts being made by Tinubu’s administration in managing the affairs of the country.
“I came to see him and to thank him for all the good work that he’s doing for the country.
“We had to look at all the good work that the President is doing and the progress that Nigeria is making economically and otherwise.
“Isn’t he doing the best he can all round? So, there is no particular area. Every other area—political, economic, social, etc.—he’s doing well.”
The former leader also acknowledged that security remains a major challenge facing the country but noted that the president is making efforts to address the issue.
“Of course, the major problem that we have today is security, and he is doing everything to deal with those challenges for the good of all Nigerians.
“There is no particular place he has to focus on specially; he’s looking after the interests of Nigeria in all areas, and I’m happy about that.”
Gowon further stressed that the government is handling the situation as best as possible without creating additional complications for the country.
“If I say that the problem that is happening today, it is only the government—that’s Mr. President—that can really deal with it, and he’s dealing with it the best he can without creating any problem for Nigeria and for the country.
“So, I can assure you, the government is handling it the best way it can to ensure that Nigeria, in the end, can achieve the peace that it requires and deserves.”
What you should know
Yakubu Gowon ruled Nigeria from 1966 to 1975 and played a key role during the Nigerian Civil War.
Since leaving office, he has remained an influential elder statesman who occasionally comments on national issues.
His visit to Bola Ahmed Tinubu comes at a time when the government is facing pressure over economic reforms and security challenges across several parts of the country.
