Former President Muhammadu Buhari extended warm birthday felicitations to President Bola Tinubu in a heartfelt telephone conversation, underscoring the strong bond between the two leaders. Buhari’s personal message, conveyed on Friday, expressed his sincere prayers and best wishes for Tinubu’s long life, good health, and a prosperous tenure as he steers the nation forward. Emphasizing the importance of supporting the country’s leadership, Buhari stated that prayers for leaders are essentially prayers for the nation’s well-being, a responsibility owed to both oneself and the country. He reiterated his and his family’s gratitude to Tinubu and other party leaders for their pivotal roles in the formation and success of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which propelled him to the presidency for two consecutive terms after previous unsuccessful attempts. He further acknowledged Tinubu’s instrumental role in ensuring the continuation of APC leadership with Tinubu himself at the helm.
Buhari’s commendation of Tinubu highlighted the President’s multifaceted contributions to the nation’s political landscape. He described Tinubu as a visionary entrepreneur, a dedicated party stalwart, a fervent activist, a skilled party organizer, a dependable ally, and a consistent victor in democratic elections. He expressed immense pride in his association with Tinubu, recognizing him as a driving force behind the APC’s success. The former president emphasized that Tinubu’s legacy would be indelibly etched in the nation’s history, acknowledging his significant influence on the country’s political trajectory. This recognition underscored the profound respect and admiration Buhari holds for Tinubu, highlighting the depth of their political partnership and shared vision for Nigeria’s future.
The 2015 electoral victory that brought the APC to power, according to Buhari, represented a mandate to establish a foundation for a transformed Nigeria, where the less privileged would have greater access to opportunities and a brighter future. He expressed satisfaction that this vision remained a central focus under Tinubu’s leadership, signifying a continuity of purpose and a shared commitment to the betterment of Nigerian citizens. Buhari viewed this victory as a triumph for all those who genuinely desired the nation’s progress, reflecting a collective aspiration for positive change and development. This shared vision further cemented the bond between the two leaders, demonstrating a unified commitment to the nation’s advancement and the upliftment of its people.
Buhari’s phone call not only served as a personal birthday greeting but also reaffirmed the collaborative spirit and shared political legacy between the two leaders. It underscored the significant role Tinubu played in Buhari’s political journey and the reciprocal respect Buhari held for Tinubu’s contributions. The conversation served as a testament to their enduring partnership and their collective dedication to the APC’s vision for Nigeria. This display of unity and mutual respect solidified the image of a strong and cohesive leadership within the APC, reinforcing the party’s commitment to its founding principles and its ongoing mission to improve the lives of Nigerians.
Moreover, Buhari seized the opportunity to extend well wishes for a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and a joyous Sallah (Eid) celebration to President Tinubu, his family, and the entire nation. This gesture exemplified the spirit of unity and togetherness that is central to the Islamic faith, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan and the subsequent Eid festivities. By extending these greetings, Buhari conveyed a message of peace, harmony, and shared celebration, further solidifying the sense of national community and shared religious observance.
In summary, the phone call served as a multi-layered message of personal warmth, political solidarity, and shared national aspirations. It reinforced the deep bond between Buhari and Tinubu, highlighting their collaborative efforts in shaping the political landscape of Nigeria. The conversation further emphasized their shared commitment to the APC’s vision for a transformed Nigeria, where opportunities abound for all citizens, especially the less fortunate. This shared vision, coupled with their mutual respect and enduring partnership, painted a picture of a united and purposeful leadership, dedicated to the betterment of the nation and its people.
