President Tinubu marked his 74th birthday in a low-key manner, in line with what he described as the prevailing mood of the nation and his longstanding personal tradition.

In a special birthday message to Nigerians, the President said he deliberately chose a subdued celebration, consistent with previous years, as a mark of sensitivity to national circumstances.

“Consistent with my tradition of marking my birthday in line with the mood of the nation, I resolved to observe this year’s birthday in a low-key manner,” he stated.

Tinubu, who expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their goodwill, prayers and support, said he was deeply touched by the outpouring of affection from citizens across the country.

“My dear fellow Nigerians, today, as I clock another year on the journey of life, I’m filled with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to serve this great nation,” he said.

The President specifically acknowledged individuals and groups who took out newspaper spaces and sponsored broadcast messages to celebrate him, thanking them for their patriotism and solidarity with his administration.

He also appreciated the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her “kind and loving words,” as well as Vice President Kashim Shettima for his commendations.

Reflecting on the state of the nation and ongoing reforms, Tinubu admitted that the country had faced significant challenges but expressed optimism about the direction of his administration’s policies.

“As I mark this special day, I am reminded of the challenges we’ve faced since we initiated our reforms. I’m glad that our sacrifices have not been in vain, as we can see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

Tinubu also noted that recent global developments, including the Middle East crisis, had posed temporary setbacks.

The President emphasised that the gains recorded so far were the result of collective effort, not just that of his administration.

“The credit for the positive outcomes we have achieved does not belong solely to me, our Renewed Hope team, or our government. We achieved the gains together,” he added.

Looking ahead to the third anniversary of his administration, Tinubu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, pledging to remain resolute in addressing the country’s challenges.

“We are determined to confront some of the challenges we face today, and with your continued support, we shall overcome,” he assured.

He called on Nigerians to remain united and committed to nation-building, urging collective action towards a more resilient and prosperous country.

“Let us continue to work together to build a stronger, prosperous and more resilient nation that will make Nigeria the pride of Africa,” the President said.

After a special prayer session in his honour at the National Mosque, Abuja, the President expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current economic challenges.

He assured Nigerians that the country remains resilient despite the impact of global developments.

Acknowledging the difficulties faced by Nigerians, including electricity concerns, rising transportation costs and inflationary pressures, Tinubu maintained that the nation would pull through the trying period.

He said: “There is the issue of electricity, there is the problem of transportation hike, and there is expected inflation as a result of the war that we have no control over.

‘’But we will overcome it. We are a resilient nation, very committed and by the grace of Almighty God, we will overcome all challenges.”

Tinubu noted that the current hardship is not peculiar to Nigeria, explaining that the conflict in the Middle East has contributed to global instability and exerted additional pressure on economies worldwide.

He, however, expressed optimism that with faith in God and collective national resilience, the country would surmount its present difficulties.

Describing his birthday as solemn and reflective, the President said it was an opportunity to thank Almighty Allah for preserving his life, family, and members of his team, while also praying for peace and stability across the world.

“It is a solemn day, a day to give thanks to Almighty Allah for sparing our lives and making things easier for me, my family, and all team members. However, we are going through a very difficult period, which is not of our making, as a result of the war in the Middle East. We pray to Almighty Allah to bring peace and stability to the rest of the world,” the President said.

He also expressed appreciation for the outpouring of goodwill and prayers from Nigerians, describing the messages as overwhelming and encouraging.

“I appreciate all the goodwill and prayers. It has been a deluge of best wishes from across the country, and I thank all Nigerians. It is a time to reflect, give thanks to God Almighty, and rededicate ourselves to the progress, development, and prosperity of this country,” Tinubu added.

He urged Nigerians to use the moment for reflection and renewed commitment to national development, stressing that current challenges should strengthen the country’s resolve to move forward together.

The prayer session was organised by the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Masari.

Governors, NASS leaders visit President

President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi hosted some dignitaries who called at the President’s residence in the State House to celebrate him as he turned 74.

One of the first callers was Vice President Kashim Shettima, who later welcomed the train of state governors from across the country, who also called in to celebrate the President as well as pray for him.

Leaders and members of the National Assembly also called in to celebrate President Tinubu.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, was on hand to receive the visitors.

The governors, who came as a group led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, prayed for the President before taking turns to speak.

The visiting governors included Sen. Hope Uzodinma, Imo State; Hyacinth Alia, Benue State; Dapo Abiodun, Ogun State; Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State; Francis Nwifuru, Ebonyi State; Monday Okpebholo, Edo State; Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, Gombe State; Nasir Idris, Kebbi State; and Umar Namadi, Jigawa State.

Others: Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State; Dikko Umaru Radda, Katsina State; Ahmed Usman Ododo, Kogi State; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State; Babagana Zulum, Borno State; Agbu Keffas, Taraba State; Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State; Aliyu Sokoto, Sokoto State; Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State; and the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat. (The Nation)