President Bola Tinubu has sent his best wishes to seasoned journalist and former presidential adviser, Reuben Abati, as he marks his 60th birthday.
In a message issued on Friday, the 7th of November, 2025, and signed by the President, Tinubu hailed Abati’s broad career achievements, describing him as an accomplished thinker and patriotic voice in national conversations. He noted that he often calls him “Rubi Rubi,” while praising his ability to excel in many roles.
“A public intellectual, author, columnist, law graduate and broadcaster, Dr Abati has distinguished himself wherever he has traversed: in the university as a student and later as a Graduate Assistant, as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian, as a writer, and presently as a television anchor.
“His insightful articles, regular interventions, and television analyses have continued to enlighten and inspire,” the President stated.
Tinubu also highlighted Abati’s stint as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, describing his contributions to journalism and public communication as impactful. He said Abati’s diverse expertise has continued to shape national dialogue on key issues.
The President also applauded the unveiling of Abati’s three new books “Portraits: “People, Politics and Society,A Love Letter and Other Stories,” and “How Goodluck Jonathan Became President” published in honour of his 60th birthday.
“I join the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), family members, and friends in celebrating this notable writer.
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“I pray Almighty God grants him long life, good health, and the inspiration to continue serving the nation and humanity,” Tinubu added.
Born on the 7th of November, 1965, Abati is a well-known columnist and television anchor with Arise TV. He ran as the Peoples Democratic Party’s Deputy Governorship candidate in Ogun State in the 2019 election.
He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Calabar and serves as a senior research associate at the Olusegun Obasanjo Centre for Cultural Studies and the National Open University of Nigeria.