President Bola Tinubu has sent his heartfelt birthday wishes to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as he marks his 65th birthday, despite ongoing controversies and criticisms surrounding their political relationship.
In recent times, the relationship between Tinubu and El-Rufai has reportedly been strained, with the former governor making critical remarks about the current administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC). El-Rufai has also accused certain individuals within Tinubu’s inner circle of promoting tribal politics, adding to the growing tension.
Despite these challenges, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released a statement on Sunday, February 16, 2025, highlighting Tinubu’s recognition of El-Rufai’s political and administrative contributions. Tinubu commended El-Rufai for his role in governance, democracy, and nation-building.
The president praised El-Rufai as a scholar, administrator, and politician with a wealth of experience. He acknowledged El-Rufai’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and his service in different capacities, including as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007.
President Tinubu further applauded El-Rufai’s leadership during his two-term tenure as Governor of Kaduna State, recognizing his efforts in governance, policy reforms, and infrastructural development. He also commended El-Rufai’s commitment to mentoring young politicians and fostering the next generation of leaders in Nigeria.
The statement from the presidency read:
“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mallam Nasir Ahmad @elrufai on his 65th birthday.”
“Mallam El-Rufai is an administrator, scholar, and politician. He is a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and highly regarded for his resourcefulness and brilliance.”
“He served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years, and prior to elective office, he had served as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007.”
“President Tinubu celebrates Mallam El-Rufai on this occasion and commends his endeavors for democracy, his meritorious service to the nation, and his mentorship of the younger generation.”
“The President acknowledges Mallam El-Rufai’s role in the dialogues leading up to the formation of the APC and his contributions to the success of the party in the three consecutive elections of 2015, 2019, and 2023.”
“President Tinubu wishes El-Rufai good health and strength for continuous service to the nation.”