President Bola Tinubu last night revealed  how  the economic crisis triggered by the naira redesign policy nearly forced him to quit the  2023  presidential race.

 Speaking at a special Iftar at the State House in Abuja, the President recounted how a conversation with a close relative almost made him reconsider his ambition.

 The  Iftar coincided with his 73rd birthday and he used the opportunity to express appreciation to Nigerians for their outpouring of goodwill and prayers during the birthday.

His predecessor, General Muhammadu Buhari reminisced on  his relationship with Tinubu and said he was proud of the deep bond between them.

Buhari ,in a telephone chat with the president  to congratulate him on his 73rd birthday was full of praise for him for his contributions to the country.

 Ex-military president ,General Ibrahim Babangida said Tinubu’s  leadership intervention thus far, has been “very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging.”

More congratulatory messages for the president also came yesterday from the Ooni of Ife ,Oba Adeyeye  Ogunwusi,state governors and other members of the political class as well as  the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa who credited  Tinubu’s leadership role  with what he called the military’s recent successes against terrorism and other security challenges in the country.

 Tinubu at yesterday’s Iftar thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the nation’s development.

 His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted  him as acknowledging the challenges he faced in the presidential race   and  reaffirming  his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s progress.

 At the Iftar were  First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, 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.

 Dr. Abdulkadir Sholagberu, Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, led special prayers seeking divine guidance and continued progress for the President and the nation.

 Reflecting on the challenges of the 2023 presidential race,Tinubu spoke of  when he contemplated withdrawing from the contest following  an encounter with a close relative.

 “Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle,” he said.

 “He told me, ‘the currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’

 “I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.'”

 The President said that his uncle later called to confirm receiving the money but admitted that he had only given the messenger N10,000, keeping the rest.

 “I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back.'”

 President Tinubu noted that he assumed office during a time of economic uncertainty and had to take immediate, difficult decisions, including removing fuel subsidy.

 “On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.

 Noting that Nigeria had reached a point of no return on the issue, the President said: “The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future.”

Vice President Shettima lauded the President’s sacrifices, stating that history would  remember him as the leader who took on the nation’s most complex challenges.

 “Thanks to his boldness, future presidents of Nigeria will not have to wrestle with the same ghosts that haunted past administrations, including fraud-ridden fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, and the suppression of local government autonomy.

 “These were the thorny issues that many before him sidestepped. But Asiwaju did not sidestep history; he came to rewrite it.

 “And in rewriting it, Asiwaju has taken the bullets that many before him simply lacked the courage to face. But that is the thing about true leadership: it is not for those who seek comfort. It is for those who understand that the path to national greatness is lined with difficult choices,” he said.

 Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the President’s ability to forgive and his relentless passion for national development.

 Akpabio described the President as a leader who thinks outside the box and as the ‘most audacious president’ in the country’s history.

 He said that, under Tinubu’s watch, governors are getting more allocation.

 “If I were a governor under your administration, I would have been a ‘supernatural governor’ and not an uncommon governor,” he said.

 House of Representatives Deputy Speaker  Benjamin Kalu, described President Tinubu as a leader who has broken barriers and uplifted future Nigerian politicians.

 He noted that the President had taken the  backseat to raising leaders for decades.

 “Today, he is at the forefront because Nigeria needs him. In 2019, despite not being from his region, he supported me in my most difficult political moment. Nigeria needs leaders who rise above tribal considerations, and he has demonstrated that,” he said.

 Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State commended the President’s decisive leadership at a time when Nigeria needed stability.

 “Only a leader with deep conviction and love for the country could have taken the bold and yet necessary decisions that averted national collapse and now restoring hope and confidence across the federation,” he said.

 Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Minister  Bosun Tijjani shared his personal experience of being appointed by President Tinubu 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,'” he said.

 The minister recounted a recent meeting at the World Bank, where a senior official described President Tinubu as the best reformist leader in Africa today.

 Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, reminisced about their early years and how divine providence led Tinubu to the presidency.

 “Our relationship did not just start in Chicago; we played soccer together as children. While I chose the library, my brother chose politics because he loved to speak. Today, Allah has shown His greatness by guiding him to lead Nigeria.

  “The city of Chicago, founded by a Black man, has educated the man who now leads the most populous Black nation on earth. I pray that Allah continues to hold his hand and guide him as he works to save our country,” he said.

Buhari: I’m proud of my association with Buhari

Former President Buhari in the  telephone  chat with Tinubu  prayed and wished him long life, good health and success for his  administration.

 “When we pray for our leaders, we are praying for ourselves and the nation. We owe this to ourselves and the nation,” Buhari’s  Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu,  quoted him  yesterday as telling  Tinubu.

Buhari added that his family and himself remain indebted to Tinubu and the other leaders of the party for the invaluable contributions they made toward the formation of All Progressives Congress (APC), catapulting him to the presidency for two terms after failed attempts in the past, and helping to produce another APC administration with the Asiwaju himself at its head.

He added:“ No doubt, the annals of the country will not be complete without bringing into mention, and a recognition of the varied and numerous roles of President Tinubu as an entrepreneur, a party stalwart, a staunch activist, party organizer, party builder, a reliable ally and a serial winner of democratic elections. I am truly proud of my association with the Asiwaju.

“When Nigerians handed the baton of leadership to the APC in 2015, it was a mandate to lay the foundation for a new Nigeria where the poor get opportunities for a better future and I am glad that the vision is not lost. It was a victory of all those who wish the country’s good.”

He also used the opportunity to wish the president, his family, and the nation a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and a happy and joyful Eid el Fitri.

Asiwaju of the universe, happy birthday —-IBB.

General Babangida said a result-driven and utility leader like Tinubu  “fits the present challenges especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration, so far.’

His message: “There comes a time in the life of a nation when uncommon personality and courageous disposition forms the basis for appreciating the essentials of  problem-solving leadership. With your rich background in the struggle for the emancipation of the ordinary Nigerian, coupled with your commitment to deepening democratic values in Nigeria, your history speaks for your persona.

“At a time like this, when your birthday strikes the right chord, it is gratifying to join millions of your admirers, associates, supporters and fellow Nigerians to celebrate you with a pat on the back. You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far, has been very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging. Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always. Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face. I can easily recollect when our paths crossed in the late eighties when the government I ran was trying to birth democracy.

“You have remained consistent to your ideals, principles and democratic values till date, reason why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment.

“A result-driven and utility leader like you fits the present challenges especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration, so far. You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to take uncommon decisions.

 “Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations. On behalf of Aisha, Muha, Aminu and Halima, accept our collective felicitations on this special day. This is happening at the Holy month of Ramadan. It is an indication of Allah’s abiding mercy and love for you. May Allah accept our supplications and grant you good health and more wisdom to help you chart the way forward for our dear country. Congratulations Mr. President. Many happy returns.”

Tinubu’s birthday a testament to his resilience, dedication to Nigeria, says Ooni

The Ooni described the President as a beacon of hope and a visionary leader who has significantly shaped the nation’s socio-political landscape.

“His selfless contributions to the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria remain an indelible legacy that history will always celebrate,” he  said,adding:“From the trenches of democratic struggles to the pinnacle of national leadership, President Tinubu has stood as a champion of progressive governance.

“His relentless fight for justice, equity, and good governance has uplifted many, rekindling hope in the hearts of countless Nigerians.

“Today, as he steers the ship of our great nation, we acknowledge his sacrifices and dedication to ensuring that future generations inherit a Nigeria that thrives in peace, prosperity, and unity.”

Oba Ogunwusi r prayed for God’s continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the President, asking that he be blessed with clarity in leadership and the fortitude to navigate the complexities of governance.

Uzodimma: Tinubu has opened door to new era of growth

 Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said President Tinubu’s  leadership has opened the door to Nigeria’s new era of growth and sustainable progress across all sectors.

 The Governor said the profound impact made by the president has significantly benefited the people.

  He said: “With strong passion and commitment to national development, President Tinubu has opened the door to a new era of growth, ensuring that every sector experiences real and sustainable progress.

 “His leadership stands out through bold initiatives, people-centric policies, and a compassionate approach that prioritises the well-being of Nigerians. Whether in revitalising the economy or renewing our infrastructure, Mr. President’s dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria is evident.

 “As you mark another year of wisdom and experience, I pray that God blesses you with long life, good health, and even greater insight to guide our great nation. May your vision for transforming Nigeria become a lasting reality, and may the years ahead bring even more remarkable achievements.”

 Otti hails his sacrifice, resilience in rebuilding Nigeria

 Abia State Governor . Alex Otti acknowledged what he called  Tinubu’s dedication to the progress and unity of the country.

 Otti in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, also commended the resilience of President Tinubu in building a united and strong nation.

He  prayed that God might continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health to steer the ship of our Nation to greater heights.

Tinubu ‘s leadership key to military gains against adversaries, says CDS

 Chief of Defence Staff  Musa said the military’s successes against the adversaries of the country could not have been possible without President Tinubu’s “immense guidance and purposeful leadership.”

 The CDS, in a statement said the President’s relentless efforts to provide the needed funds, incentives, and equipment to execute the fight against the enemies of the country had gone a long way in boosting the morale of the troops.

 He said: “Your leadership has impacted positively to the successes being achieved by the Armed Forces of Nigeria. We remain loyal and committed to your ideals and aspirations for a safer nation where citizens and their businesses will strive.

 “The successes achieved so far in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, economic sabotage, and other criminalities could not have been achieved without your immense guidance and purposeful leadership.

 “As you celebrate, we are confident that the Almighty God will guide, protect, and provide you with sound health and additional wisdom to steer the ship. We seize this opportunity to continue to pledge our unending resolve to submit to our constitutional responsibilities and ensure a safer and peaceful nation.

 “The present increase in troops morale is attributed to your relentless efforts to provide the needed funds, incentives, and equipment to execute the fight against the enemies of Nigeria.”

Benue will ever be grateful to him,says Gov. Alia

Benue State Governor  Gov. Hyacinth Alia said President Tinubu has shown his state  considerable love, given the numerous appointments, infrastructural development projects, and other Federal Government interventions in the state.

The governor appreciated the President for always putting Benue at the front burner of his “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

He said the government and people of the state would be forever grateful and proud of him and his administration.

Alia said that the future of the country looked great under the leadership of the President.

Soludo hails Tinubu’s leadership on 73rd birthday

In Awka,Anambra State Governor  Chukwuma Soludo said the  President’s  commitment to democratic governance continued to inspire renewed hope for a better Nigeria.

He descried the  birthday as  another moment to celebrate a life dedicated to service, vision, and the pursuit of national unity and progress.

“President Tinubu’s leadership is anchored in deep political experience, strategic thinking, patriotism, and a commitment to democracy. This continues to inspire hope for a better Nigeria,” Soludo said and appreciated his  “ large-heartedness and support for Anambra’s developmental aspirations.’

He added:“His inclusive approach to governance and willingness to partner with subnational entities for national progress reflect his belief in a Nigeria that works for all.”

He’s guiding Nigeria toward growth, prosperity -Otu

Cross River State Governor  Bassey Out said Tinubu’s  leadership has been “pivotal in guiding our country toward growth and prosperity.”

The Governor also emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among all states in Nigeria, stating that working together is essential for the progress and well-being of the nation.

The governor pledged the continued support of the people of the state to the president to enable his administration succeed with his   Renewed Hope Agenda.

He continues  to inspire hope, progress – Gov. Ododo

Kogi State  Governor Ahmed Ododo described President Tinubu as a statesman whose leadership and dedication to national development continue to inspire hope and progress across Nigeria.

The governor said that Tinubu’s reforms were strengthening the national unity, stabilising the economy and advancing the nation’s democratic values.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kogi State, I celebrate Mr President on this special day.

“Your resilience, visionary leadership, and patriotism have laid a strong foundation for Nigeria’s growth.

“We deeply appreciate your tireless efforts in repositioning our country for sustainable development,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu’s administration and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the President as he leads Nigeria toward greater prosperity, sustainable development, peace and stability.

He’s  courageous reformer, says Bamidele

Senate Leader  Opeyemi Bamidele called  the president a courageous reformer, a  fearless patriot and an incurable optimist in the glorious future of Nigeria.

 “President is no doubt a courageous reformer, fearless patriot and an incurable optimist, who never bothers about reelection, but about the next generation. Since he assumed office 22 months ago, he has focused on implementing key reforms that are now restoring stability to and confidence in the economy,” he said..

“In the last 22 months alone, President Tinubu signed the Student Loans Bill that has benefited no fewer than 90,000 students and raised the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. Under his leadership, also, our GDP has recorded significant growth and inflation now down trajectory.

“Statutory transfers to state and local governments have significantly risen, availing them more resources to fund projects and programmes at the sub-national level.

“The increase has no doubt prevented the country’s descent into a fiscal crisis, possibly another economic meltdown.

“Asiwaju’s courage to undertake strategic infrastructure projects is historic and legendary.

“This is evident in the construction of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, among others. These projects are indeed economic routes that connect several states together.” Bamidele observed.

Bamidele further commended the president for promoting such programmes as Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Health Sector Renewal Initiative and Renewed Hope Homes purely in the interest of Nigerians across all strata.

His  unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigeria commendable – Nwoko

In his own goodwill message,Senator  Ned Nwoko (Delta North ) said that the nation recognised the weight of the task before the president and his genuine efforts to steer the country towardgrowth and stability.

According to him, this special day offers yet another moment to acknowledge Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to the service of the country and his resilience in the face of the enormous responsibility of leadership.

“Mr President, we recognise the weight of the task before you and the genuine efforts you are making to steer the nation towards growth and stability.

“As you celebrate another year today, we acknowledge your unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigeria and advancing the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It is our earnest hope that the year ahead brings you renewed strength, wisdom, and the collective support needed to fulfill the aspirations of Nigerians,” he said.

Arewa Think Tank holds  prayer session for President

The  Arewa Think Tank (ATT) yesterday  organized a prayer session in Kaduna to mark the 73rd birthday celebration of President Tinubu.

Two Islamic Clerics, Sheikh Yahaya Musa and Abdulkareem Abumujahidah led the prayer session.

According to the Clerics, “there is nothing bad praying for our leaders. God even says that we should continue to pray for our leaders so that they can have the strength and good health to lead us better. So this prayer for the President and Nigeria as a country is in order”.

They urged Nigerians not to cease from praying at all times as part of encouraging them to ensure speedy development for the country.

In his remarks, the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu said  the gathering was solely for prayer session in commemoration of the 73rd birthday celebration of the President.

And  fielding questions from journalists shortly after the occasion, he expressed optimism that President Tinubu’s chances for a second term were  bright in view  of the  various reforms he has implemented, “which are now yielding results. So his coming back to office for the second tenure is very much assured by the grace of God”.

“We must not forget the fact that the respective holy books of the two major religions; Islam and Christianity call on the people to always pray for their leaders. So what we are doing here today is in line with one of the religious tenets. We are not doing anything political here today. Remember that last year we organised same event for Mr. President’s 72nd birthday celebration. So this is not the first we are organising this prayer session.

 The former governor of Kaduna State, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero and the Director General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, Comrade Issa Aremu graced the occasion. Both of them commended the organisers of the prayer session.

[TheNation]