Tinubu Extols Buhari’s Peerless Leadership Credentials at 81; Says ex-Prez is Icon of Integrity

President Bola Tinubu, Saturday, celebrated his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who turns 81 tomorrow, Sunday, December17, 2023.

He described him as “his friend and ally”, “an icon of truth, justice, and patriotism”.

This was revealed in a press statement issued on Saturday by Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

In the release, Ngelale said: “President Tinubu extols the peerless leadership credentials and feats of the former President, recalling his meritorious service to the nation at various times as Head of State and as President.”

According to Ngelale, Tinubu fondly recalled the the former President’s “aggressive push to modernize Nigeria’s defence architecture while working towards import substitution with the empowerment of millions of Nigerian farmers in his progressive initiative to enhance food security in the country.”

The media adviser said Tinubu reeled out the “former President Buhari’s unparalleled record of infrastructural provision, comprising several new international airports, multiple standard-gauge railway lines, new seaport development, dozens of new dams, power stations, oil and gas infrastructure, expressways and mega-bridges, in addition to establishing Nigeria’s first ever national social investment and protection programme, amongst many other feats.”

“The President,” Ngelale continued in the release, “describes former President Buhari as the finest paradigm of sacrifice, devotion, patriotism, and fidelity to the national cause.”

“President Buhari is from the rarest phylum of virtuous servant-leaders. He has devoted his life to the service of the nation, even earning himself detention for his patriotism and service to our Fatherland. The emergence of leaders like my good friend, Buhari, happens only by divine orchestration. He is a man of absolute and undiluted integrity. His yea is yea, and his nay is nay,” the President said.

Tinubu also appreciated Buhari for his friendship and vote of confidence shown through his stalwart support for the administration.

And while wishing the elder statesman longevity and strength, President Tinubu assured the former President that the hope of a prosperous, peaceful, and progressive Nigeria, which he has always worked for, will not be dashed.