President Bola Tinubu on Sunday marked his 74th birthday, receiving tributes and felicitations from prominent Nigerians, political leaders, business magnates, and governors across the country.
Among those who congratulated the president were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Godswill Akpabio, wife of the President Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Jubrin Barau, President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Dr. Peter Mbah of Enugu State, as well as Deputy Speaker of the House Benjamin Kalu.
The celebrations coincided with a political development in the South-east, as Abia State Governor Alex Otti declared that he would not oppose Tinubu’s candidacy in the 2027 presidential election, despite being a member of the opposition Labour Party (LP).
Jonathan in a goodwill message, personally signed and released by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, extended warm congratulations and prayers for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity.
“Milestones such as this offer a moment not only for celebration, but also for reflection on a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the pursuit of national progress,” Jonathan said.
“As you mark this special day, I pray that God grants you continued strength, wisdom, and long life in good health to carry forward the responsibilities of leadership and the aspirations of our great nation.
”May your years ahead be filled with peace, clarity of purpose, and success in all your endeavours.”
Senate President Akpabio lauded Tinubu’s bold economic and governance reforms, which he said were already yielding tangible dividends, while reaffirming the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting the administration’s reform agenda.
“Tinubu is an audacious and visionary leader whose determination to reposition Nigeria on a path of transformation remains unwavering,” Akpabio said.
In a heartfelt tribute, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu prayed for her husband’s good health and success in leading Nigeria to greater prosperity.
“To God be all the glory for the gift of life and yet another birthday anniversary.
”I celebrate you and I pray God gives you divine health, strength, joy and peace as you take Nigeria to her Eldorado of great wealth and opportunities. Akanbi, omo olodo ide. I love you and I am so proud of you,” she said.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, president of Dangote Group, commended Tinubu for his steadfast leadership, courage, and commitment to Nigeria’s development.
“Asiwaju, yours has been a life of proving ‘nay-sayers’ wrong and your story is symbolic of the hope and aspirations that you have for Nigeria.
”The country looks up to you for direction and purpose, and you haven’t failed on either count by demonstrating boldness in your decisiveness, when most would have prevaricated and wilted out of a lack of conviction,” Dangote said.
He prayed that Almighty Allah would grant Tinubu continued health, wisdom, and zeal to persist in building a Nigeria that citizens and future generations can be proud of.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, highlighted Tinubu’s extensive experience in both business and politics, praising his pro-democracy credentials and commitment to national development.
Similarly, Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mbah described Tinubu as a visionary leader whose dedication to Nigeria’s progress has been evident throughout his life.
“At 74, Tinubu’s life journey continues to stand as a testament to enduring dedication to Nigeria’s development, while his leadership reflects resilience and a bold commitment to reform, inclusivity, and national renewal,” Mbah said.
Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas, through his Special Adviser on Media, Musa Krishi, described Tinubu as a pro-democracy stalwart and seasoned administrator whose leadership has inspired collective national pride.
Deputy Senate President Jubrin Barau prayed for Tinubu’s long life and sound health, expressing optimism that Nigerians would vote overwhelmingly for him in 2027 to continue his reforms and infrastructural development.
Deputy Speaker of the House Benjamin Kalu also praised the president’s visionary leadership, emphasizing the positive trajectory Nigeria has taken under his tenure.
In a notable political development, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State declared his support for Tinubu’s re-election, joining other South-east governors who have signaled backing for the president.
Speaking during the March edition of his monthly media chat while unveiling “Project Switch on Bende” in Bende LGA, Otti clarified a previous statement attributed to a federal lawmaker, confirming he would not oppose Tinubu’s candidacy.
“The honourable member spoke in Bende, and what he said is correct. I am not in a position to oppose the candidacy of the President.
”I am not running for President. So, why would I oppose his presidency?” Otti asked.
“I am also seeking a second term. So would it be appropriate for me to rationalise my answer and say that somebody else should not have this?”
Otti insisted his decision was “a natural thing,” reflecting his role in the same administration as Tinubu, while criticizing politicians who “heat the polity by creating divisions under the guise of opposition.”
However, the Abia State APC advised President Tinubu to be cautious of Otti’s offer, describing it as a “poisoned chalice” and asserting that the support may be a tactic for political survival.
“This sudden declaration of support is nothing more than a desperate and deceptive tactic aimed at political survival,” said Chief Uche Aguoru, state APC Publicity Secretary.
