President Bola Tinubu has honoured his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, on the occasion of his 82nd birthday, pledging to uphold and build upon the legacy left behind by the former president.
Tinubu lauded Buhari, who handed over power to him in May 2023, as a determined and inspiring figure.
“Your doggedness and resilience in contesting presidential elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before winning them in 2015 and 2019 also inspire us never to give up,” President Tinubu stated in a personal message issued on Tuesday.
He further emphasised his commitment to continuing the development initiatives championed under Buhari’s administration. “I will continue to build on the infrastructure legacy you bequeathed to our nation as the leader of our country’s first All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.”
Reflecting on Buhari’s tenure, Tinubu highlighted the former president’s profound impact on Nigeria’s trajectory.
“Your steadfast commitment to Nigeria’s advancement and unity inspires many, and your enduring legacy continues to guide our nation’s journey toward prosperity and stability,” he said.
The president extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Buhari, adding, “On this special day, may you be surrounded by the love of your family and friends and continue to enjoy good health, happiness, and fulfilment in all your endeavours, now and in the future. Happy Birthday, and thank you for your services to Nigeria.”
Buhari, who hails from Katsina State, served two terms as Nigeria’s president under the All Progressives Congress (APC) after defeating the long-dominant Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 elections. His eight-year tenure ended when Tinubu succeeded him in 2023.
READ TINUBU’S FULL STATEMENT
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU RELEASES BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO FORMER PRESIDENT BUHARI AT 82
Dear President Muhammadu Buhari,
On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to you on your 82nd Birthday.
As you celebrate this remarkable milestone in Daura, we reflect on your years of dedicated service and leadership, which have significantly shaped the course of our nation.
Your steadfast commitment to Nigeria’s advancement and unity inspires many, and your enduring legacy continues to guide our nation’s journey towards prosperity and stability.
Your doggedness and resilience in contesting presidential elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before winning them in 2015 and 2019 also inspire us never to give up.
I will continue to build on the infrastructure legacy you bequeathed to our nation as the leader of our country’s first All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
On this special day, may you be surrounded by the love of your family and friends and continue to enjoy good health, happiness, and fulfilment in all your endeavours, now and in the future.
Happy Birthday, and thank you for your services to Nigeria.
With respect and admiration,
Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 17, 2024
