Dr. Mrs. Olejeme Hails Shagari On 90th Birthday

It is most unusual to see a large pool of former Presidents and Heads of State gather in a setting outside the Council of State meeting.

This unusual gathering was exactly the scene witnessed in Sokoto, the Capital of Sokoto State on Wednesday, 25 February, 2015 at what can be best described as a happy gathering of the Council of State with the exception of former military Head of State and current presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC); General Muhammadu Buhari, who was said to be on a trip to the UK. The occasion was the 90th birthday celebration of Former President Shehu Aliyu Usman Shagari.

The significance of Alhaji Shehu Shagari's contribution to Nigeria's democracy cannot be overemphasized. This is underscored by the eulogies contained in the various congratulatory messages that have continued to greet the elder statesman. Perhaps, worthy of mention is the Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund; Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Juliet Olejeme who extolled the virtues of former President Alhaji Shehu Shagari, describing him as a committed patriot and outstanding leader.

According to her, the elder statesman has remained a unifying force in the country, adding that his wealth of experience and invaluable advice have continued to strengthen upcoming politicians and leaders in the country.

She noted that the Sokoto-born politician who distinguished himself as the leader of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) between 1979-1983, during which time he served as Nigeria's president, has maintained his humility and comportment thus being a source of inspiration for the new generation of leaders.

Dr. Olejeme prayed God to grant the erstwhile Nigerian leader more years so that Nigerians can continue to tap from his wisdom and experience.