Gov. Ganduje Attends 100 Years Commemoration of First Nigerien President

• Gowon Gets Country’s Highest Honours

Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje today attended a commemorative ceremony in Niamey the capital of Niger Republic to mark 100yrs since the birth of the country’s 1st President, Alhaji Hamani Diori. President of Niger Republic His Excellency  Alhaji Mahamadou Yousoufu presided over the event.

Hamani Diori was born on the 6th of June, 1916 and died on the 23rd of April, 1989 at the age of 72. He became president of Niger Republic in 1960 when the country gained independence and was in power till 15th April, 1974.

Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon who spoke at the event said that Hamani Diori was a great and exemplary leader who laid a solid foundation for Niger Republic. He recalled the role Hamani Diori played particularly in the formation of African Union and ECOWAS, but most importantly the role he played in assisting Nigeria during its Civil War.

In his remarks, the Danmasanin Kano, Alhaji Maitama Yusuf emphasized on the harmonious relationship that existed between Nigeria & Niger Republic, which was solidified by the strong relationship between Hamani Diori and the then Premier of northern region Sardauna of Sokoto Sir Ahmadu Bello.

Also at the event, the highest medal of Honor in Niger Republic was awarded to General Yakubu Gowon, Late Sardauna of Sokoto Sir Ahmadu Bello, Alhaji Aminu Dantata and Danmasanin Kano, Maitama Sule. The event ended with a special prayer session led by the Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi, at the grave of Late Hamani Diori.