…Donates Salaries to Wounded Soldiers, Military Widows, Orphans; Seeks Unity at Birthday
By Franklin Adole
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will overcome the nation’s persistent electricity shortages, rising transport costs, and inflationary pressures, declaring that current hardships are temporary despite global economic shocks.
Speaking after special birthday prayers at Abuja’s National Mosque to mark his 74th birthday, Tinubu struck a tone of cautious optimism, insisting that Nigeria would weather the storm triggered in part by the ongoing Middle East crisis.
“We are challenged. There is the issue of electricity, there’s a problem of transportation hike, there’s a problem of expected inflation as a result of the war that we have no control over. But we will overcome it,” the president said.
Describing Nigeria as a resilient nation, Tinubu expressed confidence that with faith and collective resolve, the country would emerge stronger. He attributed much of the current economic strain to external shocks, particularly the war in the Middle East, which has disrupted global oil markets and heightened inflationary risks.
“We are going through a very difficult period which is not our own making… We pray to Almighty Allah to bring peace and stability to the rest of the world,” he added.
The president used the occasion not only for reflection but also for renewed commitment, calling his birthday “a solemn day” to give thanks to God and rededicate efforts towards national progress, development, and prosperity.
In a major symbolic gesture, Tinubu also announced the donation of all his salaries since assuming office to a special support fund for Nigeria’s Armed Forces. The fund is designed to assist wounded soldiers and the families of fallen heroes, reinforcing what he described as a national duty to care for those who safeguard the country.
He urged governors, lawmakers, the private sector, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative, stressing that military welfare must remain a collective responsibility.
The prayer session drew a powerful coalition of political, traditional, and religious leaders. The Sultan of Sokoto, represented by the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, led prayers for the president’s health, wisdom, and strength. Over 300 Islamic scholars participated in recitations of the Holy Quran, underscoring the spiritual weight of the occasion.
Vice President Kashim Shettima described Tinubu’s life as “a celebration of service to humanity,” praising his resilience and commitment to national progress.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, called the milestone “a day of history,” noting that Tinubu’s leadership comes at a critical time for the country.
Across the political spectrum, governors and party leaders echoed confidence in the administration’s direction. Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said recent policies were yielding results, particularly in agriculture, where increased investment is beginning to ease food prices.
Similarly, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, declared that Nigeria is “gradually changing for the better,” attributing renewed confidence in the ruling APC to Tinubu’s leadership style and reforms.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin conveyed the president’s appreciation for nationwide goodwill, while Islamic scholar Ibrahim Maqari offered prayers for enduring peace and prosperity.
Tinubu’s remarks echoed his recent statements at party fora, where he acknowledged the global ripple effects of rising oil prices—reportedly pushing Brent crude above $100 per barrel—and their impact on Nigeria’s fragile economy.
Despite these pressures, the president maintained that his administration is pushing forward with reforms, including plans to boost electricity generation through new investments expected to add 1,500 megawatts to the national grid.