By Comfort Olayinka
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Leader of the Senate, has extended heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, commending him as a courageous reformer, fearless patriot, and an unwavering optimist in Nigeria’s future.
In a statement released on Saturday, Bamidele highlighted Tinubu’s remarkable achievements in just 22 months in office, especially his efforts to transform the country’s economy and secure its long-term stability.
Bamidele celebrated Tinubu’s bold steps, including the removal of fuel and forex subsidies, which have started to yield positive results like the reduction in food and fuel prices.
The statement read in part: “I truly celebrate the 16th President of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR as he graciously turns 73 today. He is on the path of charting a path for our country.
“The President is no doubt a courageous reformer, fearless patriot and an incurable optimist, who never bothers about reelection, but about the next generation. Since he assumed office 22 months ago, he has focused on implementing key reforms that are now restoring stability to and confidence in the economy.
“In the last 22 months alone, President Tinubu signed the Student Loans Bill and raised the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. Under his leadership, also, our GDP has recorded significant growth and inflation now downward trajectory.
“Statutory transfers to state and local governments have significantly risen, availing them more resources to fund projects and programmes at the sub-national level. The increase has no doubt prevented the country’s descent into a fiscal crisis, possibly another economic meltdown.
“Asiwaju’s courage to undertake strategic infrastructure projects is historic and legendary. This is evident in the construction of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, among others. These projects are indeed economic routes that connect several states together.” Bamidele observed.
He also praised the president for historic infrastructural projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as well as programs aimed at improving education, healthcare, and housing for Nigerians.
As he marks his 73rd birthday, Bamidele prayed for continued success and divine guidance for President Tinubu as he leads Nigeria toward a brighter and more prosperous future.