President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, on his 65th birthday, praising his resourcefulness and intelligence.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described El-Rufai as a distinguished administrator, scholar, and politician.
The President commended El-Rufai for his contributions to democracy, his dedicated service to the nation, and his mentorship of younger generations.
He also acknowledged El-Rufai’s significant role in the discussions that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his contributions to the party’s victories in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 elections.
President Tinubu wished El-Rufai continued good health and strength for his ongoing service to the country.
El-Rufai, who served as the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory from 2003 to 2007, was governor of Kaduna State for eight years.
Although a former ally of Tinubu, El-Rufai has recently become a vocal critic of the current administration.
As a member of the ruling APC, he has been in conflict with his successor, Uba Sani, accusing him of seeking favor from the President.
On Tuesday, El-Rufai stated that the relationship between the President and the North had soured, warning that Tinubu might face a political fate similar to that of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 elections.
