•Tinubu
More Encomiums poured in yesterday for All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who turns 64 today.
To mark the day, a one-day colloquium on agriculture will hold today in Abuja to explore the possibilities in that sector as Nigeria moves to expand its revenue base.
President Muhammadu Buhari led the rain of tributes. A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, noted that Tinubu’s rising political profile since he was elected senator in 1992 “is a testimony to his forthrightness, diligence and doggedness”.
He said these qualities had also endeared him to the electorate and given him all-round success as a private sector worker, a businessman and two-term governor of Lagos State.
The President described Tinubu as one of the pillars of the APC, who successfully created a formidable opposition that worked vigorously within a short period to oust a party that had been in power for 16 years.
He praised the visionary leadership style of the Asiwaju of Lagos, who is also the Jagaban of Borgu Kingdom in Niger State.
President Buhari assured Tinubu that his patriotism and commitment to democracy and good governance, and his generous spirit would always be remembered and appreciated by generations of Nigerians.
He prayed that the Almighty God would grant Tinubu “long life, good health, wisdom and
prosperity as he steadfastly supports efforts to promote the development of Nigeria”.
prosperity as he steadfastly supports efforts to promote the development of Nigeria”.
House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara described Tinubu as a formidable political force who has brought changes to the political landscape.
In a statement by his spokesman Turaki Hassan, Dogara said: “On this joyous occasion of your birthday, we in the House of Representatives salute you, great leader, for the milestones you have attained in Nigeria.
“Your feats are bold and exceptional; from business to governance and politics. As a governor, you made sweeping reforms that till date your successors are still building on and making Lagos State proud.
“In politics, you have been a formidable force, helping to put together a great political party that won power at the centre in Nigeria . You have proved to be a true hero of democracy, a light that cannot be concealed!
“As you mark yet another year, my prayer for you is that God will continue to consolidate your efforts and crown them all with success.”
Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola described Tinubu as a true democrat and bridge-builder.
In a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, Aregbesola said: “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu means many things to many people but there are certain things that everyone agrees about him: a political think-thank, master strategist, promoter of politics of inclusion, political futurist and fearless activist and top politician per excellence
“His life is packed with personal achievements and involvements as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a pro-democracy activist, two-time governor of Lagos State, mentor of successful leaders and currently a major player and factor on the national political scene.
“He strikes as a consummate politician and very strategic, original political thinker.
“When he became governor of Lagos, the state was financially incapacitated but Tinubu’s knowledge of public finance changed the fortune of the Lagos Internally Generated Revenue from mere N600m. The rest is history as Lagos today stands on firm, sure footing of unimaginable development proportion.
“There is no denying the fact that Asiwaju is a rare breed politician, patriot and a true democrat. Through his political efforts and strategies, progressive politics for which the South West was noted now dominates the realm.
“No doubt, the accounts of modern Nigerian political evolution would not be complete without ample recognition of the roles of this selfless political leader.”
.Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun said: “On this occasion of your birthday, I join you and your immediate and political families in celebrating the abundant grace of God on your life.”
“Your life has been an eventful one dotted by numerous achievements and accomplishments.
“Nigeria has benefited immensely from your fountain of knowledge, wealth of experience, political sagacity and leadership acumen. The remarkable impact you have made in all spheres of human endeavour remains a reference point.”
“This is so that you can continue to make significant contributions to the overall development of
our party, in particular and our nation, Nigeria in general,” Governor Amosun said.
our party, in particular and our nation, Nigeria in general,” Governor Amosun said.
Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose described Tinubu as a pillar in Yorubaland and Nigeria.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary Idowu Adelusi quoted Fayose as saying that the APC national leader had over the years proven to be a great political figure.
“I heartily felicitate with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he clocks 64.
“Whether one likes it or not, Asiwaju Tinubu has become a political pillar and leader, not only in Yorubaland but in Nigeria.
“He is a great politician who takes well-calculated political steps.
“I and the good people of Ekiti State join millions of Nigerians and Asiwaju Tinubu’s friends and supporters across the world to rejoice with him on this auspicious occasion.
“Asiwaju Tinubu is a good case study when one talks about political resilience and doggedness and no wonder he now ranks among the leaders of this great country.
“I pray that God gives him the grace to witness many more years in sound health in the land of the living.’’
Businessman and former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu said: “I join millions of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s well-wishers, supporters, followers, political associates and family in celebrating an icon whose contributions to the social, economic and political development of Nigeria is commendable.
“Your doggedness, forthrightness and passion for a just society have earned you goodwill across the country, regardless of political affiliations.
Afenifere Chieftain, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, said: “Your name is assured a prominent place of honour in the history of Nigeria. Please continue to remain firm like an anvil under the stroke. Wishing you many happy returns of your 64th birthday God bless.
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