By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Alumni Association of Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), 41st Regular Course, has saluted the former Head of State, Gen. Abudusalami Abubakar on his 80th birthday.
The alumni association conveyed the message in a statement by its President and Publicity Secretary, Lancelot Anyanya and Faruq Baba-Inna, on Monday in Abuja.
They described the former Head of State as “a fine gentleman officer” of the finest cut and an accomplished general and seasoned statesman of repute.
The association said the continued existence of the organisation was traceable to Abubakar, then a brigadier general who chaired the selection board for RC41 and other officers.
According to the statement, it is by divine providence that Abubakar, who later became the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), presided over their convocation and formal commissioning ceremonies as officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
They said it was also through the providential circumstances that Abubakar rose to become the nation’s Commander-in-Chief.
The Association hailed the former head of state for spearheading the nation’s military that bequeathed to the current democratic dispensation to Nigerians.
“It is an obvious fact that the hand of the Almighty has been at work in the life of the association to make history individually and collectively as a course.
“The Association is blessed to be connected to the iconic personality of Abubakar, who we view as our father.
“The NDA 41R alumni warmly and heartily felicitates with a fine gentleman officer of the finest cut, accomplished general and seasoned statesman on the auspicious occasion of his 80th birthday with best wishes for excellent health.
“It is also our prayer that his stellar legacy of public service and peace building will continue to benefit our country through his wise counsel and by our own continuing commitment to national duty in and out of active service.
“Again, the 41RC Alumni Association joins family, friends and well-wishers to celebrate our father and seasoned elder statesman,” the statement said.
(NAN)
