President Tinubu Expresses Gratitude On 73rd Birthday, Reflects On Political Journey.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for their overwhelming goodwill and prayers as he marked his 73rd birthday. Speaking at a special Iftar dinner held in his honour at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, the President thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the nation’s development.
The gathering included 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 childhood friends of the President.
Overcoming Challenges on the Road to the Presidency
President Tinubu reflected on his political journey, revealing that he had once considered withdrawing from the 2023 presidential race. He recounted an encounter with a close relative who questioned his decision to continue, citing the economic hardship caused by the currency redesign policy at the time.
“During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room at around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 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 N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’”
The President disclosed that despite this moment of doubt, he remained determined. “I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.’”
Making Tough Decisions for National Progress
President Tinubu acknowledged the economic challenges facing Nigeria upon his assumption of office and emphasised the need for bold and timely decisions. One such decision was the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he announced on the day of his inauguration.
“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,” he said.
Commendations from Political and Religious Leaders
Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded President Tinubu’s courage in tackling long-standing national challenges. “Thanks to his boldness, future presidents of Nigeria will not have to wrestle with the same ghosts that haunted past administrations, including fraud-ridden fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, and the suppression of local government autonomy,” he stated.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the President’s ability to forgive and his relentless passion for national development. He described Tinubu as “the most audacious president” in Nigeria’s history, noting that under his leadership, state governors are receiving increased allocations.
Other dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijjani, commended the President’s leadership and inclusive governance.
Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, reflected on their early years and attributed Tinubu’s success to divine providence. “Allah has shown His greatness by guiding him to lead Nigeria,” he said.
A Renewed Commitment to National Development
As President Tinubu continues his leadership, he reaffirmed his dedication to Nigeria’s progress, promising to take necessary actions to ensure stability and prosperity. The event concluded with special prayers led by Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu, the Imam of the National Mosque in Abuja, seeking divine guidance for the President and the nation.
