Abuja: Former Head of State, Retired General Yakubu Gowon, joined other prominent figures in celebrating Mr. Boss Mustapha, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), on his 70th birthday. According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mustapha’s milestone birthday falls on Friday, September 4, 2026. Gowon, in a congratulatory message, acknowledged the significant achievement of reaching the age of 70, describing Mustapha’s life as a testament to excellence in public service and dedication to national development.
The message highlighted Mustapha’s tenure as SGF, noting his loyalty, integrity, and extraordinary service. Gowon praised Mustapha’s resilience and dedication, particularly during his leadership of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, where he played a crucial role in curbing the virus’s spread in Nigeria. Gowon expressed gratitude for Mustapha’s service and prayed for his continued health and peace.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also extended his congratulations to Mustapha on this occasion. In a personal letter, Obasanjo referred to the 70th birthday as a ‘platinum jubilee’ marked by dedicated service to Nigeria. He commended Mustapha’s contributions to the nation and expressed his intent to attend the birthday celebration in Yola, provided there are no last-minute conflicts.
Obasanjo expressed his anticipation for the event and offered prayers for Mustapha’s future, wishing him health, wisdom, and strength in the years to come. Similarly, former President Goodluck Jonathan lauded Mustapha for his lasting contributions to Nigeria’s development during his tenure as SGF. Jonathan wished Mustapha continued health, peace, and fulfillment and recognized the birthday as a testament to a life of service and leadership.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Mustapha, who served as SGF from 2017 to 2023, will celebrate with family, friends, and political associates in Adamawa. The celebrations will include the inauguration of a library donated by Mustapha to a university in Yola and a state banquet hosted by the Adamawa government. Mustapha’s early life saw him born in Garaha, Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa. He pursued his education in Adamawa and Borno, later attending Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. He obtained a Bachelor of Law in 1979 and completed his legal education at Nigeria Law School, Lagos, in 1980. Mustapha’s career spans multiple sectors, and he is recognized as a ‘boardroom guru.’