Editorial,

It feels good to be part of history, but it feels even better to make history. By celebrating alongside a leader who has become the symbol of the unity of his people, we are not only being part of history, we are also making history.

This history-making, in effect, started some 44 years ago, at the birth of this champion of a leader who would spearhead this historic course of development for the people of The Gambia. This history is what we are celebrating today with the 44th birthday anniversary of our dear president, His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh. Gambians owe a big, big thank you to Allah the Almighty for enabling us witness this momentous day.

Mr President, we recognize the fact that we are blessed with a leader in your person whose utmost concern is the improvement of the lives of the citizenry; a leader who jealously defends the country's right to development and constantly endeavours to transform his good words into practice.

Your sense of patriotism and strength, with which you have served this country for decades now, unconditionally, remains a source of pride for Gambians both at home and abroad, and it will remain so for generations to come. The management and staff of the Observer Company wish to join all peace-loving Gambians and non-Gambians in whishing you happy 44th Birthday anniversary and many, many more returns.

We pray that the Almighty Allah continues to guide and protect you and grant you success in your endeavour for national development. We also wish to use this occasion to call on Gambians to remain united in support of your vision, along the lines of the aspirations of our forefathers.