President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday congratulated a former Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, on his 80th birthday.

According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the President commended Shonekan for what he described as his immense contribution to national peace and development which he has exemplified as an accomplished administrator, astute businessman and patriot.

He said his administration would continue to rely on the elder statesman for advice on how to move the nation forward.

The statement read, “The President believes that the historic role played by the octogenarian in forging and maintaining the unity of Nigeria will continue to endear him to many.

“He assured him that his administration would continue look forward to his fatherly counsel and advice on how to move the nation forward.

“President Buhari prays that God Almighty will grant Chief Shonekan more years of good health and happiness to see the Nigeria of our dreams.”