A former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Saturday paid glowing tributes to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir David Lawal, saying Nigerians expect the best from him in this era of “stupendous change for which we all laboured.”

He stated that with the SGF, Nigerians can be assured that the operations of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari “will be conducted smoothly and professionally.”

The National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC) represented by Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, spoke during a thanksgiving reception held for the SGF at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja.

An earlier thanksgiving service held at ECWA Church in Wuse 2 was attended by the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN); Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara and APC national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun

Also at the service, were governors Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State; Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Darius Ishaku (Taraba), Willy Obeano (Anambra), Solomon Lalong (Plateau), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Dave Umahi (Ebonyi).

Tinubu said, “We gather to celebrate a man of outstanding character and rare integrity. Through the years and lean times when so many others succumbed to the temptation of illicit wealth and the abuses of power and privilege he remained that faithful and unrelenting foot soldier in search for the common good. He remained true to God, to his faith, to his love of this nation and the potential of its people to claim a better day and a more perfect land.

“While it may come slowly and ways unexpected, there is ultimately a reward for hard work and selfless service. BD Lawal's elevation to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is well earned. If you are looking for a man who is diligent in his work with a keen eye for details and correct process, there is none better than Babachir Lawal.

“He knows this nation and understands its complexities, from the intricacies of our federal bureaucracy to the diversity of our social fabric to the, multiple dimensions of our political dynamics. He is a man well-tailored to fit his position in today’s Nigeria where we find ourselves in a situation not meant for the faint hearted. A situation that requires grit, guts and wisdom. These attributes, Lawal has in abundance.

“While possessed of these fine and precious qualities, he does not seek the limelight. He is humble and does not need to see his name in the spotlight. As long as the job is done correctly, he is happy. He does not seek credit even when duly deserved.

“This humility and self-contentment is not a common thing, especially in the arena of politics and government.We are thankful that God has bestowed these qualities on this man at this time. With BD as SGF, we can be assured that the operations of this government will be conducted smoothly and professionally.

“He will do his utmost to do the best for all of Nigeria. BD plays no favourites and is not one to operate under the veil of bias or discrimination. This big often gruff man also has a big heart and that heart is dedicated to good of our beloved land.

“Through the years I have known BD Lawal, he has remained steadfast in his political beliefs. Never wavering and always resolute in his political convictions, BD does not blow with the prevailing political wind. He is a true ally, who remains by your side when the times get tough. He does not honey-coat his words or actions, he cuts through the chase and blunt also to a fault.

“Indeed today we gather to thank God. It is only God that elevates and promotes and rewards. I see the hand of good in BD's appointment. God has equipped him to be an outstanding SGF.

“Nigerians look up to you, BD, and pray that you will give them your best. They expect you to impact the system positively and help put an end to the malpractices of the past that have stalled and burdened us as a people. All that you have learned. All of that experience. All of your insight, your nimble yet steady mind, and your friendly yet firm political nature must be brought to bear in this present assignment.

“Nigeria is at the cusp of a stupendous change for which we all laboured. You have been tapped as one of the chief engineers who must make that change happen. We know that you shall excel because you have been born for this moment and this moment was born for you.

“Nigeria shall see its new day and realise its better self. We say this as a prayer and declaration, so let it be done.”

•Photo shows SGF Babachir Lawal.

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