First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan being supported by her children, her husband, President Goodluck Jonathan; his mum, Mama Eunice Jonathan (2L); to cut her cake during a family get-together to mark the First Lady's 55 birthday at the State House, Abuja

By Muhammad Bello

The wife of the Nigerian President, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, has given thanks and praises to God for sparing her life to witness and mark her birthday.

The first lady who turned 55 Thursday and celebrated it in a low key manner inside the presidential Villa, Abuja, said that whatever might have happened to her was God's design for her life.

She however appreciated God for the gift of life, thanked her immediate family and Nigerians for praying for her.

President Goodluck Jonathan, after presenting a gift to his wife, described her as a shining star in his life and thanked God for granting her good health.

The event was marked with thanksgiving prayers and presentation of gifts by family, well-wishers and friends.