Tinubu Celebrates El-Rufai at 65, Applauds His Role in Democracy

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his 65th birthday, recognizing his contributions to governance and democracy in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations to the former Governor of Kaduna State on his 65th birthday, praising him for his ingenuity and intelligence.

In a statement released on Sunday by his spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu referred to El-Rufai as an administrator, scholar, and politician.

The President praised El-Rufai for his “efforts in supporting democracy, noteworthy service to the nation, and guidance of the younger generation.”

He recognized Mallam El-Rufai’s involvement in the discussions that led to the creation of the APC, as well as his contributions to the party’s success in winning three consecutive elections: 2015, 2019, and 2023.

President Tinubu extends his wishes for good health and strength to El-Rufai, encouraging continued service to the nation.

El-Rufai held the positions of Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory between 2003 and 2007, before serving as governor of Kaduna State for eight years.

Once an ally of Tinubu, the former governor has abruptly turned into a staunch critic of the current administration.

He has been engaged in an ongoing conflict with his successor, Uba Sani. As a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), he accuses the governor of attempting to curry favor with the President.

On Tuesday, El-Rufai asserted that the relationship between the President and the North had worsened, cautioning that Tinubu could encounter a similar political outcome as former President Goodluck Jonathan in advance of the 2027 elections.