In a surprising show of camaraderie amid recent political tensions, President Bola Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, on his 65th birthday. The gesture, described by many as a move to foster unity, has sparked widespread reactions across political circles.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that President Tinubu, in a heartfelt message released on Tuesday, praised el-Rufai for his contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and governance reforms. “Your dedication to public service and your relentless pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on our nation,” Tinubu stated.
According to Naija247news, the birthday message comes despite recent reports of friction between the two political heavyweights. Sources close to the presidency revealed that the relationship between Tinubu and el-Rufai had been strained following disagreements over policy directions and political strategies. However, Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of el-Rufai’s milestone has been interpreted as an olive branch.
Naija247news understands that el-Rufai, known for his outspoken nature and transformative leadership in Kaduna State, has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. His tenure as governor was marked by bold reforms, including urban renewal projects and efforts to improve education and security. Despite controversies, el-Rufai remains a influential voice within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In his response, el-Rufai expressed gratitude for the president’s kind words, describing the gesture as “heartwarming.” Naija247news reports that the former governor also used the occasion to reiterate his commitment to Nigeria’s progress, stating, “I remain dedicated to the ideals of good governance and will continue to support initiatives that benefit our people.”
Political analysts have weighed in on the development, with some viewing it as a strategic move to mend fences ahead of the 2027 general elections. “This could be a sign of reconciliation within the APC, especially as the party prepares for future electoral battles,” said Dr. Ibrahim Sani, a political science lecturer, in an exclusive interview with Naija247news.
Meanwhile, social media has been abuzz with reactions to Tinubu’s message, with many Nigerians applauding the president for prioritizing unity over discord. “This is the kind of leadership we need—one that rises above personal differences for the greater good,” tweeted @Aisha_Musa, a social commentator.
Naija247news reports that the celebration of el-Rufai’s birthday has not only highlighted his enduring influence but also underscored the importance of political cohesion in a deeply polarized environment.
As el-Rufai marks this significant milestone, the message from President Tinubu serves as a reminder that, despite differences, the pursuit of national development remains a shared goal.
