Segun Fatuase
Encomiums rent the media space as the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu celebrates his 70th birthday today .
President Muhammadu Buhari, in his message, commended Tinubu for his courage, resilience, selflessness and nobility in always placing the welfare and unity of the nation above self, backed with the vision of a greater Nigeria through investments in people, institutions and governments, without minding tribe or creed.
He also noted that Tinubu “has diligently and progressively risen on the nation’s political ladder since 1992, fighting for democratic rule against many odds, angling for people-focused development and supporting visionary and purposeful leadership.”
The president prayed that the Almighty God would increase Tinubu, the Jagaban of Borgu Kingdom, in strength, good health and wisdom to keep serving the nation, and humanity.
Senate President Ahmad Lawan described Tinubu as a visionary political leader with a track record of building people and organisations.
“I heartily felicitate the National Leader of our great Party, Asiwaju Tinubu on this occasion of his birthday. I join members of his family, friends, political associates and numerous well-wishers across and outside of Nigeria in rejoicing with Asiwaju for reaching this milestone in sound health of body and mind.
“Asiwaju Tinubu has lived a life of service, impacting many lives in several decades of active political participation and public service.
“This has made him a political pathfinder, leader of leaders and a legend in his own lifetime.
“Today, he is not just a principal actor in Nigerian politics, but also one of the main issues.
“I wish the Jagaban Borgu a happy birthday and many more years of impactful service to our beloved fatherland, Nigeria, and its great people.”
Chairman, Senate Committee on Industries and the Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, also congratulated Tinubu on his landmark 70th birthday, describing him as a leader of leaders with unrivalled capacity of discovery star talents who will add value to people’s lives.
“On behalf of my family, and the great people of Lagos East Senatorial District, I heartily congratulate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his landmark 70th birthday.
“Sir, your leadership capacity and ability to headhunt star talents that will deliver great services to the people is never contestable. I belong to that class of outstanding professionals you encouraged to have a stint in public service for the greater good of the people. The learning curve remains valuable even now as a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The transformational government you led in Lagos State between 1999 and 2007 is still being referenced till date across the land. You rescued a state at the edge of a precipice. In education, health, waste management and road infrastructure, you delivered exceptionally .
“Sir, there is no doubt in my mind that Nigeria will experience an impressive transformation if your patriotic quest to provide quality leadership at this critical period in the nation’s history is acceded.
“Asiwaju, on this milestone, I sincerely pray that God should grant your heart desires and give you good health and vitality as you age gracefully!”, Abiru said.