President Tinubu Celebrates Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso at 68, Describes Him as a Valued Friend and Ally

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso on the occasion of his 68th birthday, celebrated on October 21, 2025. In a message released by the Presidency, President Tinubu described the former Kano State Governor as a “valued friend and ally”, recalling their long-standing relationship that spans decades of political collaboration and shared service to the nation.

The president noted that their journey together began in the National Assembly in 1992, where both men served as legislators. He reflected fondly on their later years as governors in 1999, underscoring the mutual respect and cooperation that defined their working relationship. Tinubu’s message conveyed not only congratulations but also a deep sense of camaraderie rooted in years of political partnership and shared ideals.

Remain a Friend and Ally Through Political Evolution

President Tinubu further emphasized that despite their differing political paths, Senator Kwankwaso continues to hold a special place within Nigeria’s progressive movement. “We also worked together in founding the All Progressives Congress (APC),” the president said. “Although he later left the APC to establish the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), it is noteworthy that he remains within the progressive fold.”

This acknowledgment reflects Tinubu’s broader philosophy of political inclusivity and mutual respect, particularly among leaders who have contributed to shaping Nigeria’s democratic space. The president’s tribute demonstrates a recognition that political divergence need not erase personal relationships or shared aspirations for national development.

Remain a Friend and Ally in the Spirit of Progress and Unity

In extending his best wishes, President Tinubu reaffirmed his belief in Senator Kwankwaso’s enduring commitment to the Nigerian project. The president’s tone underscored a broader message of unity, partnership, and the continuity of progress-driven leadership. His remarks serve as both a celebration of Kwankwaso’s personal milestones and an endorsement of his lasting influence on Nigeria’s political landscape.

Kwankwaso, a former Minister of Defence and founder of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has remained a major figure in Northern politics and national discourse. Tinubu’s birthday message highlights the spirit of statesmanship—placing shared national goals above partisan boundaries and reaffirming the need for collaboration among Nigeria’s political leaders for the country’s stability and prosperity.