Dare Babalola
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have paid glowing tributes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he marks his 74th birthday, describing him as a courageous reformer and visionary leader steering the country toward long-term prosperity.
In separate goodwill messages issued on Sunday, both leaders commended Tinubu’s leadership style, policy direction, and enduring impact on governance at both national and subnational levels.
Shettima, in a personally signed message, congratulated the President on what he described as a significant milestone, praising his “vision, courage, and achievement” in office. He noted that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has continued to reposition Nigeria’s economy, citing improvements in key economic indicators.
According to the Vice President, the past year has recorded notable progress, including accelerated GDP growth, easing inflationary pressures, and a surge in foreign direct investment. He attributed these developments to the President’s deliberate and reform-driven policies aimed at stabilising and expanding the economy.
He further highlighted Tinubu’s emphasis on infrastructure development, noting that ongoing projects are laying a solid foundation for long-term economic growth by enhancing trade, connectivity, and productivity across the country.
Beyond economic gains, Shettima emphasised the President’s leadership qualities, particularly his willingness to take tough but necessary decisions. He described Tinubu’s approach as one that prioritises long-term national interest over short-term political convenience.
“History will remember a leader who chose reform over populism,” the Vice President stated, adding that working closely with the President has provided him with valuable insights into decisive governance and principled leadership.
He also praised Tinubu’s ability to combine empathy with firmness, describing it as a defining feature of his administration. Shettima concluded his message with prayers for the President’s continued health, strength, and wisdom as he advances his reform agenda.
Similarly, Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his congratulatory message, lauded Tinubu as a “tested and trusted democrat” whose lifelong dedication to public service has left a lasting imprint on both Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
Speaking on behalf of his family, the Lagos State Government, and members of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged Tinubu’s enduring commitment to democratic ideals, good governance, and national development.
He noted that as President, Tinubu has demonstrated courage in implementing critical decisions aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians, adding that his leadership continues to provide direction at a crucial period in the nation’s history.
The governor also reflected on Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos, stating that the progress currently being recorded in the state is built on the strong institutional and developmental foundations laid during his tenure as governor.
Sanwo-Olu offered prayers for continued strength, wisdom, and good health for the President, expressing confidence in his capacity to guide the nation toward greater political stability and economic advancement.
The tributes from both leaders underscore the widespread recognition of Tinubu’s leadership as he marks his 74th birthday, even as they reinforce support for his ongoing efforts to reshape Nigeria’s economic and governance landscape.
