President Tinubu Celebrates 73rd Birthday, Reflects On Challenges And Vision For Nigeria

A Special Night: Tinubu Thanks Nigerians on His 73rd Birthday

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked his 73rd birthday in a unique way, surrounded by loved ones, dignitaries, and supporters at a special Iftar held in his honor at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night. In a heartfelt moment, the President extended his gratitude to the Nigerian people for their unwavering support, goodwill, and prayers. This was a night filled with reflections, hope, and determination for the future of the nation.

According to a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the presence of esteemed guests, acknowledging their roles in shaping the country’s progress. He also reiterated his commitment to overcoming the challenges Nigeria faces and steering the nation toward a brighter tomorrow.

A Gathering of Esteemed Leaders and Personal Friends

The event brought together a diverse array of personalities from various walks of life, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, principal officers of the National Assembly, current and former governors, diplomats, business leaders, religious figures, and even some of the President’s childhood friends. This gathering was a testament to the broad spectrum of support and respect President Tinubu commands across the nation.

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Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu, the esteemed Imam of the National Mosque in Abuja, led the congregation in special prayers, seeking divine guidance and blessings for both the President and the nation. The prayers emphasized the importance of unity, progress, and resilience as Nigeria navigates its current challenges.

Reflections on a Turbulent Political Journey

In a candid moment, President Tinubu shared a personal anecdote from his political journey, highlighting the doubts and challenges he faced during the 2023 election campaign. He recounted a conversation with a close relative late one night, which almost led him to reconsider his decision to run for the presidency. The relative had approached him in the early hours of the morning, seeking financial assistance to buy food for a family member affected by the economic situation.

President Tinubu said, “Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just ₦50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle. He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have ₦10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’”

In response, President Tinubu firmly stated, “I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.” He went on to share how this encounter tested his resolve but ultimately strengthened his determination to lead Nigeria. He disclosed that his uncle later admitted to keeping most of the money, a revelation that almost made him reconsider his presidential ambitions. However, thanks to the encouragement of supporters like Aminu Masari, he persevered and stayed the course.

Difficult Decisions in Times of Uncertainty

President Tinubu also reflected on the tough choices he faced upon assuming office during a period of economic uncertainty. One of the most significant decisions he had to make was the removal of the fuel subsidy, a move that was not initially part of his inauguration speech. He explained, “On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal.”

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of leadership in making the right decisions at the right time. He said, “The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future.”

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Words of Praise from Vice President Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima praised President Tinubu’s sacrifices and boldness, stating that history will remember him as the leader who tackled the nation’s most complex challenges. He highlighted the President’s courage in addressing issues like the fraudulent fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, and the suppression of local government autonomy—problems that had long plagued Nigeria.

Shettima said, “Thanks to his boldness, future presidents of Nigeria will not have to wrestle with the same ghosts that haunted past administrations. But Asiwaju did not sidestep history; he came to rewrite it. And in rewriting it, Asiwaju has taken the bullets that many before him simply lacked the courage to face. That’s the essence of true leadership: it’s not for those who seek comfort. It’s for those who understand that the path to national greatness is lined with difficult choices.”

Senator Akpabio’s Tribute to a Visionary Leader

Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised President Tinubu’s ability to forgive and his relentless passion for national development. He described the President as a leader who thinks outside the box and as the “most audacious president” in the country’s history. Akpabio noted that under Tinubu’s leadership, governors are receiving increased allocations, a testament to the President’s commitment to equitable resource distribution.

Akpabio humorously remarked, “If I were a governor under your administration, I would have been a ‘supernatural governor’ and not an uncommon governor.” His words highlighted the transformative impact of President Tinubu’s policies on state governments and the nation as a whole.

Benjamin Kalu: A Leader Who Breaks Barriers

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described President Tinubu as a leader who has broken barriers and uplifted future Nigerian politicians. Kalu noted that the President had taken a backseat for decades, focusing on nurturing leaders, but now stands at the forefront because Nigeria needs him. He emphasized the President’s ability to rise above tribal considerations, saying, “In 2019, despite not being from his region, he supported me in my most difficult political moment. Nigeria needs leaders who rise above tribal considerations, and he has demonstrated that.”

Hope Uzodinma: A Leader with Conviction

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State commended President Tinubu’s decisive leadership at a critical time for Nigeria. He said, “Only a leader with deep conviction and love for the country could have taken the bold and yet necessary decisions that averted national collapse and are now restoring hope and confidence across the federation.” His words underscored the President’s role in stabilizing the nation during turbulent times.

Minister Tijjani: A Personal Account of Transformation

Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijjani, shared his personal experience of being appointed by President Tinubu despite his past activism. He recounted how the President acknowledged his records and activism, saying, “I have looked at your records and activism, and I am giving you an opportunity to serve.” This gesture highlights President Tinubu’s willingness to embrace diversity and innovation in his administration.

Tijjani also shared a recent encounter at the World Bank, where a senior official described President Tinubu as the best reformist leader in Africa today. This recognition underscores the global impact of the President’s leadership and reform efforts.

Professor Amuwo: A Lifelong Friendship and Divine Guidance

Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, reminisced about their early years and how divine providence has guided Tinubu to the presidency. He said, “Our relationship did not just start in Chicago; we played soccer together as children. While I chose the library, my brother chose politics because he loved to speak. Today, Allah has shown His greatness by guiding him to lead Nigeria.”

Amuwo concluded by praying for Allah’s continued guidance and support for President Tinubu as he works tirelessly to save the nation. This heartfelt tribute from a lifelong friend adds a personal dimension to the President’s journey and underscores the importance of faith and perseverance in leadership.