President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the occasion of his 89th birthday, celebrating him as a towering statesman whose influence continues to shape Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.

In a statement issued on March 4 by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded Obasanjo’s courage, sacrifices, and decades of dedicated service to the nation.

Tinubu reflected on Obasanjo’s remarkable leadership journey — from serving as Nigeria’s military Head of State between 1976 and 1979, where he notably handed over power to a civilian administration, to his historic return as the first civilian President of the Fourth Republic, steering the country from 1999 to 2007.

The President also highlighted Obasanjo’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s history, including his efforts during the civil war to safeguard the nation’s unity and his period of imprisonment for standing against military dictatorship. He commended the elder statesman’s unwavering advocacy for Africa’s political stability and economic growth.

Describing Obasanjo’s books and public engagements as enduring testaments of patriotism and commitment to nation-building, Tinubu prayed for continued strength, sound health, and wisdom for the former leader as he marks another milestone in a life devoted to service.

The 89th birthday celebration, observers note, once again underscores Obasanjo’s lasting imprint on Nigeria’s political landscape and his continued relevance in national and continental affairs.

***A Historic First in His 30-Year Public Career

It was a colourful scene of culture, music, and prestige on Saturday at the ancient town of Iyin-Ekiti, as the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Adeniyi Ajakaiye (Oyinyosaye III), installed the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB), as the Oluomo of Iyin-Ekiti during the grand finale of the 2025 Iyin-Ekiti Day Celebration.

Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele and Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau

The conferment, offered by the Oluyin-in-Council and the entire Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom, came as a heartfelt recognition of Senator Bamidele’s outstanding contributions to the socio-economic and infrastructural development of his hometown — a community he has served with distinction over the years.

Former Minister of Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele and Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau

The air was charged with excitement as cultural troupes thrilled the audience with traditional drumming, dance, and colourful displays, while dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered to witness the royal event that blended heritage with modern prestige.

In his emotional acceptance speech, Senator Bamidele expressed profound appreciation to the Oluyin, the Council, and the people of Iyin-Ekiti, describing the honour as “deeply humbling and inspiring.” He revealed that it was the first traditional title he would receive in his over three decades of service in public life, and promised to rededicate himself to serving his people and humanity with even greater zeal.

Also conferred with chieftaincy titles at the ceremony were other eminent personalities, including:

Senator Jubrin Barau, Deputy President of the Senate – Agba Akin of Iyin-Ekiti.

Senator Jide Ipinshagba, Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Procurement – Aare Bobagunwa of Iyin-Ekiti.

Hon. (Engr.) Remi Oseni, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on FERMA – Aare Bobajiroro of Iyin-Ekiti.

Otunba Niyi Adebayo, former Governor of Ekiti State – Asiwaju of Iyin-Ekiti.

The event was not just a coronation, but a reunion of culture, governance, and gratitude — a royal celebration that left Iyin-Ekiti aglow with pride and joy.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, President Tinubu described Senator Ibrahim as “more than a friend — a brother,” recalling their decades-long relationship that began in the Senate during the aborted Third Republic in 1992.

“Since we first met in the Senate chambers in 1992, our friendship has only grown deeper and stronger,” the President said.

Tinubu praised Senator Ibrahim’s steadfast commitment to democracy, good governance, and nation-building, noting that his political career has been defined by integrity and dedication to public service.

“Due to his democratic credentials and commitment to his people, it was no surprise that he was re-elected to the Senate twice, in 2003 and 2011,” Tinubu stated, adding that Ibrahim’s advocacy for peace and unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been exemplary.

The President recounted their shared experience during the struggle against military dictatorship following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

“When the authorities released him and left the rest of us in detention, Abu refused to leave, insisting that all of us be released together,” Tinubu said, hailing the Katsina-born politician’s courage and loyalty.

He also acknowledged Senator Ibrahim’s role in the formation and growth of the APC in 2013 and his active support during the 2023 presidential campaign.

“As a patriot, Abu has lived a life of dedication to public service and the pursuit of a greater Nigeria,” the President said. “He has continued to provide invaluable support and ideas for the successful implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

President Tinubu prayed for Senator Ibrahim’s continued good health and strength to keep contributing to national development.

“I thank him for his steadfast support and cherished friendship over the years,” Tinubu concluded.