Former President Muhammadu Buhari has extended his heartfelt birthday wishes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reaffirming their enduring bond and expressing pride in their political partnership.
A statement signed by Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on Saturday, March 29, said that in a telephone call on Friday, Buhari joined Tinubu’s family and the nation in celebrating the President’s birthday, offering prayers for his long life, good health, and successful leadership of the country.
“When we pray for our leaders, we are praying for ourselves and the nation. We owe this to ourselves and the nation,” Buhari stated during the call.
The former President also expressed gratitude to Tinubu and other leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their critical roles in the party’s formation and success.
He acknowledged Tinubu’s contributions in helping him secure the presidency after multiple attempts and in ensuring the APC retained power with Tinubu at the helm.
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“No doubt, the annals of the country will not be complete without mentioning and recognizing the varied and numerous roles of President Tinubu as an entrepreneur, party stalwart, staunch activist, party organizer, party builder, reliable ally, and a serial winner of democratic elections. I am truly proud of my association with the Asiwaju,” Buhari remarked.
Reflecting on the APC’s historic victory in 2015, Buhari emphasized that the mandate given by Nigerians was to lay the foundation for a new Nigeria where opportunities abound for the less privileged. He expressed confidence that the vision remains intact under Tinubu’s leadership.
“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 for all those who wish the country well,” he added.
Buhari also took the opportunity to extend his best wishes to the President, his family, and the entire nation for the successful completion of Ramadan and a joyous Eid celebration.