Mr. Jonathan as “a gift to the nation’’ - Vice-President Namadi Sambo

• The president was honoured in absentia.

The Executive Council of the Federation (FEC) on Wednesday rejoiced with President Goodluck Jonathan as he clocked 56.

The brief ceremony, which took place before the commencement of its weekly meeting, was presided over by Vice-President Namadi Sambo.

The ceremony was held in the absence of the President, who had left for London to preside over a three-day meeting of Honourary International Investors’ Council (HIIC).

In a brief remark, Mr. Sambo described Mr. Jonathan as “a gift to the nation’’ and hailed his leadership style and commitments to transforming Nigeria.

“We are privileged Nigerians sharing from the grace of God upon his life. There is no doubt that the great destiny of this man has helped our individual destiny.

“What really can we give him in return but only to thank God for his life but to also commend him to the guidance, protection and the care of God.

“We will continue to pray that Mr. President succeeds in this noble course of transforming our dear country,” Mr. Sambo said.

The Ministers of Transport and Agriculture, Idris Umar and Akinwumi Adesina, respectively offered special prayers for the President on behalf of the council.

The council, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, also presented a birthday card to the Vice-President for onward presentation to the President, before cutting a birthday cake.

Jonathan, the 14th Nigerian Head of State, was born November 20, 1957 in Otueke, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State to a family of canoe makers.

He holds a BSc. degree in zoology, Msc. in Hydrobiology and Fisheries Biology and a Phd in Zoology.

(NAN)