The Jagunmolu of Ikaleland, Gen. Olu Bajowa (rtd), quietly marked his 76th birthday at his Lagos home on December 27.
At the occasion, he expressed gratitude to God for protecting his life particularly althrough his military career.
He prayed for President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigeria, expressing optimisn that the nation would prevail over its economic and security challenges.
He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their “courage, resilience, doggedness and gallantry” in maintaining peace and order in the nation under the leadership of President Buhari.
He expressed pride in the determination and commitment of members of the Armed Forces, in combating insurgency, which he described as a threat to the security and territorial integrity of our country.
He described the security and economic challenges facing the nation as the usual temporary phenomena of any developing nation.
Preaching peaceful co-existence among Nigerians, he said, “Our strength is in our diversity. Any thought of break-up will be suicidal. Dialogue, compromise, mutuality and above all patriotism, are the panacea.”
He paid tributes to the fallen heroes who made the supreme sacrifice in keeping Nigeria united.
Bajowa, a recipient of a national honour of the Order of the Federal Republic, described President Buhari as “a tested General with sound military credentials”.
According to him, Nigeria is endowed with sufficient natural and human resources to develop the nation and for the empowerment of women and the youths.
He prayed to God to grant President Buhari and those in positions of authority in government the wisdom and tenacity to lead the nation out of the present economic recession.
The General thanking his guests, shared with them the nostalgic memory of his military and public services, particularly as a former Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji and as a former Director General/Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence.
The officiating Pastor at the low-keyed event, Pastor Segun Ige, precached from Psalm 90 and 92, giving praises to God for His abundant blessings, protection and mercy on the host.
The pastor prayed that God would grant to the country, peace and tranquility.
He also prayed for members of the host’s nucleus family, the Bajowa Royal Family, his members of staff, his Ikale people, the citizens of Ondo State and Nigerians at large.
