The Presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has commended the unwavering commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to nation-building on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
He also described the President as “a patriot, selfless and steadfast leader of uncommon zeal.”
Tinubu hailed the president for his commitment to nation-building and long years of patriotic service to the country.
He noted that Buhari enlisted himself in the service of the country as a teenager who joined the military immediately after secondary school.
Tinubu said: “At 80, President Buhari can look back and be proud of his unblemished record of service to the nation throughout his military career as a soldier, platoon commander, General Officer Commanding, Military Governor, Minister of Petroleum, Head of State, Chairman of Petroleum Trust Fund and as the current leader of the country.
“I heartily congratulate my president and my leader, Muhammadu Buhari, on the momentous and remarkable occasion of his 80th birthday.
“An officer and a gentleman, President Buhari has been a selfless and steadfast leader and a patriot with uncommon zeal who has dedicated almost his entire life to the service of Nigeria.
“Our country is lucky to have this great man and dedicated public servant at this time. President Buhari has led an extraordinary life of service to Nigeria at every duty post with unassailable integrity. History will be kind to him and record his contributions to the progress, unity and stability of Nigeria in volumes.
“As a people, we are truly blessed to have a president who sees no higher honour than the opportunity to serve his people, a responsibility he has always carried with utmost dedication.
“We are proud that at age 80, this noble man, an officer and a gentleman is still rendering his service, recording tremendous achievements, the country making remarkable progress under his leadership, and his steady hands gradually guiding the country to the Promised Land.
“On behalf of our great party, APC, and my family, I join the family, friends, associates and all well-wishers of President Buhari to wish him a happy birthday and many happy returns of the day in good health.”
On his part, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State felicitated with President Muhammadu Buhari on his 80th birthday, describing him as one who is never found to be corrupt.
Sanwo-Olu said President Buhari’s unblemished service in public office has made him a role model to many Nigerians.
“President Buhari to date remains one of the most respected and honest world leaders, who is never found to be corrupt despite the juicy positions he has held in the military and other public offices at state, regional, national and international levels in the last 50 years,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The governor said Buhari has provided honest and transparent leadership in the country, adding that the President, since he assumed office on May 29, 2015, has demonstrated unparalleled patriotism, integrity, honesty and courage in the task of steering the ship of Nigeria in the right direction.
He also praised the President for delivering on his promises to Nigerians, especially in the fight against corruption, and insurgency and for the building of infrastructure in different parts of the country.
Sanwo-Olu said Buhari is one of the few Nigerian leaders who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the country, especially in the Armed Forces, politics and governance.
“On behalf of my family, the government, the people of Lagos State and the entire members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), I congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
“President Buhari has sacrificed the greater part of his life in service of our dear country, Nigeria. He is the epitome of honesty, dedication and service and he has used his elevated positions at various times for the betterment of the Nigerian people.
“As President Buhari celebrates his 80th birthday, it is our prayer that God will grant him more prosperous years in good health and wisdom as he continues to serve our dear nation. Happy Birthday to our dear President, the latest entrant in the Octogenarian Club.”
Also, Senate Chief Whip, Orji Kalu described President Muhammadu Buhari as a genuine and patriotic leader with passion for a just and fair society.
Kalu in a goodwill message acknowledged the developmental strides of the Buhari-led administration.
Extolling the virtues of the President, Kalu said that Buhari had over the years sustained his goodwill and pedigree across the nooks and crannies of the country, owing to his attributes anchored on justice and fairness.
The former governor of Abia urged politicians to emulate the exemplary leadership qualities of the President.
He added that Buhari consistently demonstrated selflessness, patriotism and integrity in his pursuits.
Kalu prayed for longer life for the President in the service to humanity.
“I convey my greetings to President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
“The President has continually made sacrifices for the growth and progress of Nigeria.
“His leadership qualities are remarkable, unbeatable and worthy of emulation by leaders across the globe.
“The President will forever be celebrated for his contributions to social, economic and political development of Nigeria and beyond,” he said.