Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar became the center of national celebrations on Monday as he marked his 78th birthday, receiving glowing tributes from prominent political and business figures across Nigeria.
Political Allies Honor Elder Statesman
Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, led the birthday wishes through a heartfelt message on his X account. He described Atiku as an "elder brother, boss, and elder statesman" while acknowledging his remarkable dedication to public service despite advancing age.
Obi expressed his admiration for Atiku's continued political engagement, writing: "Special birthday wishes to an elder statesman, my very dear elder brother, boss, and elder statesman, Your Excellency Atiku Abubakar. I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades."
The former Anambra governor emphasized that maintaining active participation in public life requires extraordinary fortitude during one's golden years. He prayed for God to grant Atiku "many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead" along with wisdom and strength for continued nation-building contributions.
State Tributes and National Recognition
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State joined the celebration, highlighting the pride Atiku brings to both his home state and Nigeria as a whole. The governor celebrated the Waziri Adamawa's distinguished service and prayed for Allah's continued blessings, good health, and wisdom.
Fintiri's message underscored Atiku's dual impact: "Happy birthday to our distinguished elder statesman, Waziri Adamawa, H.E. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. Your contributions to our nation and our dear Adamawa State remain a source of pride."
From the business community, Tein T. S. Jack-Rich, former All Progressives Congress presidential aspirant and President of Belemaoil Group, characterized Atiku as a "towering pillar in Nigeria's national journey". In his Tuesday statement, Jack-Rich praised the former vice president as a paragon of courage, conviction, and commitment to the greater good.
Reflections on Democratic Legacy
Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation, contributed to the birthday acknowledgments by recognizing Atiku's instrumental role in shaping Nigeria's democratic institutions and political alliances. He specifically recalled Atiku's tenure as Vice President between 1999 and 2007, noting the significant economic and institutional reforms achieved during that period.
Amaechi commended the economic policies that opened Nigeria to global investment and expanded opportunities for citizens. He also praised Atiku's ongoing engagement in national discourse and advocacy for democratic principles, describing these as enduring elements of his public life.
"As we celebrate your lifelong legacy of service to the nation, my family and I pray that the Almighty grants you good health, clarity, and the grace to continue contributing to the progress of our country," Amaechi stated, concluding with a Hausa prayer: "Allah ya kara maka lafiya da hikima."
Born on November 25, 1946, in Jada, Adamawa State, Atiku Abubakar has maintained a prominent presence in Nigerian politics for decades. His service as Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007 represents just one chapter in his extensive political career, which includes multiple presidential bids and leadership roles in business and civil society organizations.
