By Emma Ujah

ABUJA—Former President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated the nation’s first Executive President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, as he turns 91 today, describing him as an inspiration to many Nigerians.

PIC.2. FROM LEFT: FORMER HEAD OF INTERIM GOVERNMENT, CHIEF ERNEST SHONEKAN; FORMER MILITARY PRESIDENT, GEN. IBRAHIM BABANGIDA; THE CELEBRANT, FORMER PRESIDENT SHEHU SHAGARI; PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN; FORMER HEAD OF STATES, GEN. YAKUBU GOWON AND GEN. ABDULSALAMI ABUBAKAR, CUTTING THE 90TH BIRTHDAY CAKE OF FORMER PRESIDENT SHAGARI IN SOKOTO ON WEDNESDAY (25/2/15). NAN

Jonathan, who made this known in a statement issued yesterday by Ikechukwu Eze, his media adviser, described Shagari as a blessing to the nation.

He added that Shagari’s long-standing commitment to peace and development would continue to inspire many Nigerians to offer their best to their fatherland.

He said: “I am glad the Almighty Allah has blessed you with long life and good health, in line with your selfless dedication to noble causes and human progress.

“You have been of immense blessing to Nigeria while serving her in various capacities as a teacher, nationalist, politician and statesman.

“The nation will continue to be grateful to you because of your vision, wisdom, democratic ideals and outstanding achievements as President.”

“Your altruism, patriotism and long-standing commitment to peace and development will continue to inspire many Nigerians to offer their best to their country.”

The former President further prayed to God to grant Shagari more productive years to see a more united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.