73rd birthday: Nigerians’ safety, welfare most important to me — Tinubu

By Ismail Azeez

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians, stressing that these remain his foremost concerns in both governance and prayer.

Speaking to journalists on Friday after a special Juma’ah prayer session held at the National Mosque, Abuja, in honour of his 73rd birthday, Tinubu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness another year.

A statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the President as reaffirming his determination to work tirelessly for the peace and progress of the nation.

“I feel good. I feel happy. I thank Almighty Allah, who has protected us and continues to answer our prayers,” Tinubu said. “We have prayed for our country, for its stability and peace. We have asked Almighty Allah to safeguard our people and all citizens.

“The message for all of us is clear—hard work. You work harder, and you pray harder. That is the inspiration I took from today’s sermon.”

The President, who will officially turn 73 on 29 March 2025, also expressed appreciation for the privilege of life and service, saying, “We thank God Almighty that at this stage, we are still here, actively engaged and working.”

The special prayer session was led by Dr Abdulkadir Salman Solagberu, the Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, alongside other esteemed clerics. Dr Solagberu assured the President of continuous prayers for his strength, wisdom, and good health, emphasising that sustained prayers for national peace and stability would foster progress and collective well-being.

Similarly, the Imam of the National Mosque, Prof. Muhammad Kabir Adam, acknowledged the President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their generosity towards the less privileged during Ramadan. He urged Muslims to maintain their devotion beyond the fasting period and continue praying for the nation’s prosperity.

“Mr President, Allah is with you, and you will succeed,” he declared.

The prayer session was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, ministers, service chiefs, and members of the President’s family.