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President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians for their overwhelming goodwill and prayers as he marked his 73rd birthday.

At a special Iftar held in his honor at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, President Tinubu thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to Nigeria’s development. Reflecting on his journey to the presidency, he reiterated his unwavering commitment to advancing the nation.

Among those in attendance were First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, as well as members of the Federal Executive Council, principal officers of the National Assembly, current and former governors, diplomats, business leaders, religious figures, and some of the President’s childhood friends.

During the event, Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu, Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, led special prayers for divine guidance and national progress.

A Moment of Doubt on the Path to Presidency

President Tinubu shared a candid recollection from the 2023 election campaign, revealing that he once contemplated stepping down after a conversation with a relative struggling with the cash crunch caused by the Naira redesign policy.

“During the campaigns, one of my relatives came to me around 3:30 a.m. asking for N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle. He blamed me for the financial struggles caused by the currency redesign. When I assured him that I was still running for President, he doubted my chances,” Tinubu said.

Despite the discouragement, the President pressed forward with his ambition, encouraged by allies like former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari.

Bold Decisions for Nigeria’s Future

President Tinubu acknowledged the economic challenges facing the country and reaffirmed his resolve to make tough but necessary decisions. He cited his immediate removal of the fuel subsidy upon assuming office as an example of decisive leadership.

“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. I knew that subsidy removal was inevitable for Nigeria’s progress, and I stood firm despite the criticism,” he said.

Vice President Shettima, Other Leaders Applaud Tinubu’s Leadership

Vice President Kashim Shettima praised the President’s sacrifices, stating that history will remember him for tackling Nigeria’s toughest challenges head-on.

“Thanks to his boldness, future leaders will not have to grapple with fraudulent fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, or local government suppression. Asiwaju has rewritten history by making difficult choices,” Shettima noted.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Tinubu as a leader with exceptional vision, crediting him with increasing federal allocations to states and strengthening national governance.

“If I were a governor under your administration, I would have been a ‘supernatural governor,’” Akpabio quipped.

Similarly, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu hailed Tinubu’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, noting his role in fostering unity beyond ethnic and regional lines.

A Legacy of Leadership and Reform

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State commended the President’s decisive leadership during a critical period for Nigeria.

“Only a leader with deep conviction could have taken such bold steps to avert national collapse and restore hope,” Uzodinma remarked.

Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, shared how President Tinubu gave him the opportunity to serve despite his past activism.

“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘I have looked at your records and activism, and I am giving you an opportunity to serve,’” Tijani revealed.

Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, recalled their early years and the divine path that led Tinubu to Nigeria’s highest office.

“The city of Chicago, founded by a Black man, has educated the man who now leads the most populous Black nation. Allah has guided him to this moment, and we pray for continued wisdom in his leadership,” Amuwo said.

Looking Ahead

As President Tinubu celebrated his 73rd birthday, the evening was not just about reflecting on the past but also looking forward to Nigeria’s future. His supporters believe his leadership will steer the nation toward economic recovery and political stability, proving his resilience and dedication to national progress.

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