₦airaland Forum

Video: Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Ambassador Lawal Kazaure and others wishing Former President Muhammadu Buhari happy birthday this morning.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLiVXGU3JQc?si=5yo-emXQSatqKvVO

Garba Shehu @GarShehu

At 82, Buhari wraps up in silence and dignity in Daura

Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in as president following a decisive victory in the 2015 general elections and was reelected with an even bigger majority for a second consecutive term of office in 2019, underscoring the trust and confidence of the country in his administration. As he marks his 82nd birthday, it is time to remind ourselves of certain qualities that stand him apart from the crowd.

Buhari is a very different leader with a strong attachment to the weak and poor, dedicated to improving their wellbeing and alleviating their suffering. Politics and corruption go hand in hand in many countries, and Nigeria is not an exception. The general perception is that if you are a politician, you must be corrupt. He is known as “Mai Gaskiya,” the truthful one for his honesty and simple lifestyle.

His campaign focused on a blend of economic development, security and the fight against corruption. His two terms ushered in a paradigm shift in governance with a strong focus on building the country’s long-delayed infrastructure and leadership through personal example. Under Buhari, the country embarked upon remarkable initiatives to address multi-dimensional poverty. The country became the first on the continent to have a social security system. Several measures aimed at reducing poverty, the bane of the poor were introduced through financial inclusion.

Buhari prioritised efforts towards universal health coverage. His administration successfully removed the country’s name from the list of nations with endemic polio.

In 2021, his administration launched a campaign for five million off-grid solar power connections to villages without electricity impacting 20 million Nigerians without power more than 60 years after independence; took reliable, clean energy to the country’s major markets, electrified several federal universities, teaching hospitals and set up a funding scheme for mini grids in 100 hospitals across the country.

Agriculture was very close to the heart of the former president. Not only that he is, himself, a farmer growing crops and tending to livestock, President Buhari launched several initiatives in rice growing and 15 other agricultural communities leading to domestic self-sufficiency in some and boosting exports and increased foreign earnings in others.

Buhari believed that transportation was a key path to the transformation of the country and embarked upon next-generation infrastructure reconstructing the nation’s major roads and bridges, airports, inland waterways, seaports and significant advances in the development of standard gauge rail.

Under the administration, the country made improvements in the Ease of Doing Business and in the strong belief that the level of science and technology will, not far from now determine the strength, even the destiny of a country, Buhari ensured a lot of money went to the ministry as well as the research institutions under it throughout the eight years.

The president’s lifetime story, starting in Daura, a semi arid region and now within seizure of the Sahel desert taught him to be deeply passionate about the environment. The thrust of his policy was both reactive and proactive: it is easier to destroy the environment than to rebuild it.

Buhari’s foreign policy initiatives led in many respects to the realisation of the country’s goal as a leading power in the West African sub-region and Africa as a whole. Nigerian leaders are praised while in office and discredited even after tremendous contributions by them after they leave office. Knowing this, President Buhari would rather be silent on the criticism of his administration -much of it unfair- in the belief that the truth, like oil buried under the soil, has a way of coming to the top.

To use the words of Leo Tolstoy, two most powerful warriors are patience and time. I make the admission that in all human-leaders inclusive-there are limitations and shortcomings. As a leader, Buhari towers above many before him. The former president said to the hearing everyone that once he handed over to his successor on May 29, 2023, he would be as far away from the nation’s capital, Abuja, so as not to cast a shadow over the new administration, to give the space to them to effectively take off and stabilise without distractions. Being willing to renounce power is his extraordinarily admirable trait.

Since leaving office, he visited Abuja just twice, first to officiate at the launching of Femi Adesina’s brilliant book “Working With Buhari,” and the second time as a guest of President Bola Tinubu when they convened a meeting of the council of state.

Unlike others, the Nigerian constitution has created a platform for interaction between the present and the past leaders of the country, the council of state which is set up to advise the sitting president on some important appointments and on sundry issues affecting the state.

Cooperation between serving and former Nigerian leaders is not new although it is difficult to know how much cooperation goes on between current and former presidents. General Gowon, the oldest surviving former leader, would appear to be the most helpful of all of the nation’s past rulers.

On the other hand, since leaving office, first as a military leader and subsequently as elected president after two terms, President Olusegun Obasanjo has called and written on every head of state after him to put him to shame or disgrace, and in some cases outrightly asking for his resignation or ouster in the next election. General Abacha alleged that Obasanjo had a hand in a coup plot against him and had him imprisoned.

If President Buhari is not seen going about publicly for a while, it has to do with his expressed wish to be as far away as possible, not to be a distraction to the new administration. He earnestly is sympathetic to Tinubu in his challenging job of reforming the economy, and all the other leaders in expectations management of citizens, much of which is difficult- if not impossible- to meet.

In the remoteness of Daura, he has found the atmosphere for a well-deserved rest, in silence and dignity and away from predatory pressures of Abuja. Buhari maintains a very simple daily routine of catching up with the news on radio and television each morning, enjoying the company of his grandchildren, meeting with scheduled guests and a one to two hour walk around his expansive farm inspecting crops and livestock. An avid reader who must get all available newspapers, President Buhari now has plenty of time to read and watch his favourite TV shows.

As he marks his 82nd birthday, may he always be remembered and honoured.

https://x.com/GarShehu/status/1868974094232043925?t=zNr64-wPY5IjJbCcj0kIEg&s=19

Video: Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Mr Boss Mustapha wish Former President Muhammadu Buhari a happy birthday.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npV6dlcILNQ?si=aI8PaaRjyI_mHd6M

For Buhari, Ore Mekunu (Friend of the poor), at 82

By FEMI ADESINA

This will stick in memory for life.

It was March, 2020. The whole world was at the edge. A pandemic was on the prowl, and the auguries were not good. The Spanish flu of 1918 to 1920 killed between 25 and 50 million people worldwide. COVID-19 was going to mow down hundreds of millions, with Africa and Nigeria particularly vulnerable. Corpses would litter the streets of Africa’s most populous country.

Like leaders world over, President Muhammadu Buhari was rallying Nigerians for safety. There would be a lockdown of the country for weeks, as other nations of the world were doing.

There was a meeting of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council, PEAC, led by Professor Doyin Salami. It was more of a COVID-19 War Council. How would the pandemic affect the economy, oil prices in the international market, healthcare, agriculture, indeed all gamut of the lives of Nigerians? The projections were not good.

When the meeting ended after hours, President Buhari charged everyone to stay safe, take all the necessary precautions, and remain alive.

And to Zaynab Shamsuna Ahmed, his Minister of Finance, the President said directly: “No matter what happens, make sure salaries do not fail. Workers may be home for months, but please pay them. And also ensure that pensions don’t fail. Let our retirees have their dues. Life is difficult enough for these people when they are paid, than to consider when they are not paid at all.”

The Minister pledged that she would do her best. And true, the global lockdown lasted for about seven months, yet salaries and pensions did not fail.

That was the vintage Muhammadu Buhari, always thinking of the poor and underprivileged. They come first in his pecking order.

At a time everyone was seeking refuge, and it was every man for himself and God for us all, the poor and the underprivileged still had a place in his heart.

The fears in the world were so palpable, and then there was this hilarious development. The President was to record a national broadcast, in which he would lock down the country. It was already general knowledge that cough was something to watch out for as symptom of COVID. As the broadcast was being recorded, he let out one big cough.

He looked at those of us in the room with him, and jocularly exclaimed: “Ah, is the thing here already?” We laughed.

A man in a privileged position, but who has a heart for ordinary people, is called Ore Mekunu (Friend of the poor) in Yoruba language. There was a governor in one of the South-West states, who went by that cognomen. He loved ordinary people, and they loved and flocked round him in return. He drank agbo jedi (herbal medicine for pile) with them, stopped to eat at roadside restaurants, and generally demystified power.

On the day he was inaugurated for second term in office, he threw open the newly built N3.3 billion State House to the hoipolloi, the ordinary people. They were to make merry, and spend the night there. Which they did.

Buhari would not display such histrionics, but ordinary people always came first with him.

The conditions in which he inherited the country have been well documented. At least 27 of our 36 states could not pay salaries; he bailed the Governors out. Because of the people.

When at a Federal Executive Council meeting, a Minister remarked that the Federal Civil Service was bloated, with many idle hands all over the place. The suggestion was to cut the strength by half, and that the workforce would still be too large.

Not a bad proposal, as desperate times call for desperate measures. But what did President Buhari say?

“I understand what you are saying, Honorable Minister. We would save a lot by reducing the workforce. But if it lies within my power, I won’t want a single person to lose his or her job. Things are hard enough in the country, and to throw people into the unemployment market would be rather inconsiderate.”

That was the end of that proposal, for the eight years that the Buhari administration lasted. He even increased minimum wage from N18,000 to N30,000.

The Big Elephant in the room. Removal of fuel subsidy. Did you think the government didn’t know that the money guzzling monster had to be slain? It knew. But who ensured that subsidies remained as long as it did? Buhari. And why? The people, the ordinary people. His argument was always simple: “When oil sold for at least 100 dollars per barrel in the international market, rising even to as high as 140 dollars per barrel, what did the ordinary people gain? Nothing! So why should they be the ones to bear the brunt when oil prices fall?”

By the time the administration ended, all, including the three main presidential candidates, were resolved that oil subsidies had to be removed. It was not unlikely that President Buhari shared the same conviction. But something that would throw society into a tailspin? He didn’t want to do it-for the sake of the ordinary people.

Ordinary people gravitate towards Buhari, like bees to the honeycomb. That was why he always had a basket of millions of waiting votes, even before the first ballot was cast. He clobbered the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in 2015, and won with even larger votes in 2019, despite all attempts to denigrate and demarket him. When you love the ordinary people, they love you in return, and stand with you through thick and thin.

Now almost two years into retirement, get to Buhari’s house today. And you see the people milling around, just wanting to get a glimpse of the man.

Shortly before the 2011 election, Buhari wept. He said he wouldn’t offer himself to be President again after that year. It was because of the ordinary people that he wept. What would happen to them? But happily, he had a change of heart, ran in 2015, and won. Brought into power by the people.

As he turns 82 December 17, 2024, I salute the Ore Mekunu, a friend of the poor, who still draws the people like magnet, even in retirement.

•Adesina was Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to President Buhari, 2015 to 2023

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/12/for-buhari-ore-mekunu-friend-of-the-poor-at-82/

Atiku Abubakar @atiku

On behalf of my family, I felicitate with former President Muhammadu Buhari, @MBuhari, on his 82nd birthday. I pray that the Almighty Allah continues to grant you more years in good health and vitality. -AA

https://x.com/atiku/status/1869024340093845958?t=ZcFBeJSFdjhxeRiataCjgw&s=19

Peter Obi @PeterObi

Your Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, as you mark your 82nd birthday anniversary today, on behalf of my family, I sincerely congratulate you. May God Almighty grant you many more healthy and happy years ahead. -PO

https://x.com/PeterObi/status/1869069735595474984?t=IDrg_x2QJ-jrdHO4cNqP7g&s=19

4+4 =

Bayo Onanuga @aonanuga1956

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU RELEASES BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO FORMER PRESIDENT BUHARI AT 82
 
Dear President Muhammadu Buhari,
 
On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to you on your 82nd Birthday.
 
As you celebrate this remarkable milestone in Daura, we reflect on your years of dedicated service and leadership, which have significantly shaped the course of our nation. 
 
Your steadfast commitment to Nigeria's advancement and unity inspires many, and your enduring legacy continues to guide our nation's journey towards prosperity and stability.
 
Your doggedness and resilience in contesting presidential elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before winning them in 2015 and 2019 also inspire us never to give up.
 
I will continue to build on the infrastructure legacy you bequeathed to our nation as the leader of our country's first All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
 
On this special day, may you be surrounded by the love of your family and friends and continue to enjoy good health, happiness, and fulfilment in all your endeavours, now and in the future.
 
Happy Birthday, and thank you for your services to Nigeria.
 
With respect and admiration,
 
Bola Ahmed Tinubu 
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 17, 2024

https://x.com/aonanuga1956/status/1869072637743296920?t=G_OHtEdWgdE71uHjtfFMtg&s=19

Aminu W. Tambuwal @AWTambuwal

Dear His Excellency, Former President @MBuhari GCFR,

On the occasion of your 82nd birthday, I extend my warmest congratulations to you. Your unwavering commitment to the ideals of integrity, justice, and national unity has not only shaped the course of our nation but has also inspired generations of Nigerians to value the principles of honesty, hard work, and selflessness.

Your distinguished service to the country during your military days is a testament to your dedication to the well-being of all Nigerians, irrespective of their background or status. Your leadership has always been anchored in the values of discipline, transparency, and accountability, and these qualities have earned you the admiration and respect of both your compatriots and the international community.

As you celebrate this momentous day, I pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, continues to shower you with His blessings. May He grant you continued good health, happiness, and peace. I ask that Allah’s guidance remain upon you, strengthening your spirit and enriching your life with joy and contentment.

Your life and contributions to Nigeria are a source of pride, and on this special occasion, I join millions of Nigerians in expressing gratitude for your dedication to the nation. May your days ahead be filled with peace, joy, and fulfilment, and may Allah continue to grant you His protection and divine wisdom as you enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Happy 82nd birthday, Your Excellency. May the light of Allah’s guidance forever shine upon you. -AWT

https://x.com/AWTambuwal/status/1869032299284627647?t=XKwq3J8q_tBMM8WgCn3cvw&s=19

Tinubu the ambassador of poverty, corruption and nepotism.

R

lol

Happy birthday fine boy buhari

Make we no lie, this guy get swags

Dammmn

Obi I know

Happy birthday Bubu or Jubril

Some people are just crazy

Tall for nothing.

Wow

Happy birthday Bubu. Your silence to your detractors and those that hope that you are Jubrin from Sudan was defeaning, you treated them in the language that they loved with tears. Is plenty, they loved it with wailing Sir.

The most clueless president in African history

"animals in human cloths" ~ Fela (refering to buhari and co)

OK



Princess FaithChukwu

Happy birthday fine man
The good man with bad intentions.
I still can't believe that NK convinced millions of Igbos that this is Jubril
How on earth did he pull that shocker?
Hate is indeed a destructive tool, it robs one of common sense of reasoning.

Wetin consign bird voice obi,

Notice no family member is present because their father died long ago

No wife, no useless daughter, no kids, no grandkids. They should just fake the death of the imposter.

Meaning they are all one.

bubu did absolutely nothing for 8yrs

PAY TRIBUTE ?

IS HE DEAD

WHY PAYING TRIBUTE..!!!

$1 - $750 at black market

Nigerian missed Buhari

Happy birthday, PMB. He's Tinubu's agemate. Even though tinubu had succeeded in fooling his supporters on his actual age, he can't full everyone with his actual look. Oyinbo and money no fit reverse that.

Treasure17:
Tall for nothing.

LOLS
U BE WEREY