Juliana Taiwo-Obalonyeoh, Abuja
President Muhamamdu Buhari has congratulated his nephew and friend, Mamman Daura on his 80th birthday.
The President also congratulated pioneer Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, on his 75th birthday.
According to a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, Buhari congratulated the veteran journalist for reaching the milestone, and for many years of love and sacrifices for the nation, especially in his chosen career, journalism.
President Buhari recalled, with delight, Daura’s remarkable brilliance from childhood at the Katsina Middle School and Government College which caught the attention of Northern Regional Government, leading to sponsorship for further studies in the United Kingdom in the 50’s and many years to follow, noting that the knowledge had, overtime, only translated into more wisdom.
He rejoiced with the renowned journalist and bibliophile, who worked with the civil service for a while before joining the New Nigerian newspapers, where he rose to be Editor and Managing Director, before venturing to the private sector as entrepreneur, inspiring industrial growth in the north in furniture making, textile manufacturing, aluminium smelting and other investments.
President Buhari assured Daura that his footprint on the development of the country, and quintessential attention to family values, will always be remembered and appreciated, extolling him for the visionary role he played in the banking sector and management of companies, and development institutions.
The President prayed that the Almighty God will grant long life to the elder statesman, and more strength to keep pursuing his number one passion of serving humanity, especially through philanthropy.
In another statement by Special Adviser to the President Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari commended Ugochukwu for serving the nation for many years as a journalist, administrator and adviser to many governments.
President Buhari felicitated with Ugochukwu, his family, friends, professional and political associates on the landmark age, heralded with many recognitions and achievements of loyalty and sacrifice for the nation, especially his foray into politics and visionary role in the setting up of the NDDC.