Tinubu hails El-Rufai, On 65th birthday, commends contributions to democracy.
President Bola Tinubu hailed the former Kaduna State governor on his 65th birthday, praising his ingenuity and creativity.
Tinubu, in a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, hailed El-Rufai as an administrator, scholar, and politician.
The president thanked El-Rufai for his “endeavours for democracy; meritorious service to the nation; and mentorship of the younger generation.”
He spoke of 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 optimal health and strength for continuous service to the nation.”
President Tinubu congratulates Nasir el-Rufai on his 65th birthday.
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai on his 65th birthday.
Mallam El-Rufai is an administrator, scholar, and politician. He was a founder member of All…pic.twitter.com/JyDMOLyhY9
— Fed Min of Information and National Orien (@FMINONigeria), February 16, 2025.
President Tinubu congratulates Nasir el-Rufai on his 65th birthday.
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai on his 65th birthday.
Mallam El-Rufai is an administrator, scholar, and politician. He was a founder member of All…pic.twitter.com/JyDMOLyhY9
— Fed Min of Information and National Orien (@FMINONigeria), February 16, 2025.
From 2003 to 2007, El-Rufai was the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. He also served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years.
Though a long-time Tinubu friend, the former governor has recently become a harsh opponent of the current administration.
As a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), he has been at odds with his successor, Uba Sani, accusing the governor of seeking the president’s favour.
On Tuesday, El-Rufai warned that the president’s relationship with the North had worsened, warning that Tinubu could face the same political destiny as former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 elections.