By Bayo Wahab
Despite Nasir El-Rufai’s barrage of criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the President celebrated the ex-governor on his 65th birthday.
The relationship between El-Rufai and President Tinubu has recently deteriorated as the former relentlessly slams the president, his supporters and the ruling All Progressives Congress.
El-Rufai has been critical of President Tinubu’s administration and policies, accusing those around the president of playing tribal politics.
The ex-governor’s criticism of the presidency and the ruling APC is believed to be a fallout of his failed ministerial nomination.
But in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President, on Sunday, February 16, 2025, President Tinubu described El-Rufai as a scholar, administrator and politician who is “highly regarded for his resourcefulness and brilliance.”
“He served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years, and prior to elective office, he had served as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007.
“President Tinubu celebrates Mallam El-Rufai on this occasion and commends his endeavours for democracy; his meritorious service to the nation, and mentorship of the younger generation,” the President said.
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES NASIR EL-RUFAI ON 65TH BIRTHDAY
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mallam Nasir Ahmad @elrufai on his 65th birthday.
Mallam El-Rufai is an administrator, scholar, and politician. He is a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and… pic.twitter.com/hQD0PuqSEr— Daddy D.O
(@DOlusegun) February 16, 2025
The President also acknowledged his role in the dialogues leading up to the formation of the APC and his contributions to the party’s success in the three consecutive elections of 2015, 2019, and 2023.
The President wished him good health and strength for continuous service to the nation.
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