President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday commended former Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), for attending the inauguration of the nation's Centenary celebration held recently at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

President Jonathan also described Buhari's appearance at the inauguration as impressive.

Buhari, a two-time flag bearer of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) had joined the President in lightening the Centenary torch last Monday.

According to him, "when the celebration was packaged and that day when I got there, I was impressed myself, especially when I saw the former heads-of-state, including General Buhari. He came that day and that was why I said the two of us should light the unity torch and I think it was something nice."

Speaking further, he said: "Initially, when we came up with the idea of celebrating our centenary, there were so many negative statements in the media. There were many Nigerians questioning why we have to be celebrating amidst crisis. They claimed that our unity has never brought development."

The President noted that: "But finally, when the celebration was packaged and that day when I got there, I was impressed myself.

"So the colourful flag off of the Centenary with the victory of the Super Eagles, though I am not a soothsayer, but there are certain things that are directed by the will of God and I believe God has a purpose for this country. I believe that purpose will come through and I believe collectively, we shall succeed."