Former Military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, expressed his belief that Nigeria would have experienced greater development had late President Umaru Yar’adua completed his tenure. Speaking at the inaugural President Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Leadership Conference and Awards hosted by the Global Initiative for Leadership Success in Abuja, Gowon highlighted Yar’adua’s significant contributions during his brief time in office.
Gowon emphasized that Yar’adua made notable strides for Nigeria, particularly through his efforts in addressing the challenges in the Niger Delta region. Notably, Yar’adua’s decision to grant amnesty to Niger Delta militants played a crucial role in restoring stability and bolstering the country’s economy.
Assuming office in 2007, Yar’adua’s presidency was tragically cut short by his passing in 2010 due to health complications. Reflecting on Yar’adua’s character, Gowon lauded him as a man of integrity and honesty, attributing his leadership style to his unwavering commitment to transparency and incorruptibility.
Gowon recalled Yar’adua’s humility and integrity, noting his acknowledgment of flaws in the electoral process that brought him to power and his subsequent efforts to address them. Despite the challenges, Yar’adua remained steadfast in his dedication to serving Nigeria with honesty and sincerity.
