A former presidential adviser and renowned journalist, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, has issued a heartfelt birthday message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to reflect deeply on the state of the nation and seize the opportunity of his leadership to leave a lasting legacy of service, empathy, and inclusive governance.
In a widely circulated statement released on Saturday to mark the president’s 73rd birthday anniversary, Ojudu, who described Tinubu as a former friend and confidant, recalled the days they worked closely together as political allies and champions of democracy.
He urged the president to remember the ideals and sacrifices of their shared past and summon the courage and compassion that once defined his leadership.
According to him, “Mr. President, I remember the days when we sat together as friends, allies, and comrades in the struggle for democracy and good governance,” Ojudu wrote. “You were once a friend and confidant. The ties that bound us were rooted in shared ideals and a vision for a better Nigeria.”
Reflecting on Tinubu’s former dynamism and problem-solving acumen, Ojudu recalled the sleepless nights during their early years of political engagement: “I remember the risks you took, your constant pondering on the conditions of our people. I recall your sleepless nights poring over papers, building bridges across the country, resolving conflicts, and making decisions with creativity and conviction.”
Ojudu acknowledged the realities of aging but insisted that the fire that once burned in Tinubu could still be reignited.
“That milk of kindness you showed as Governor, that spark of genuine concern—I know it is still in you. Now, more than ever, you need to reach inward and bring it back to bear on the nation’s worsening socioeconomic conditions.
“Nigeria is in crisis. Please try—and try hard.”
He lamented the severe economic hardship, widespread hunger, insecurity, and despair facing millions of Nigerians, and urged the president to distance himself from sycophants and self-seekers who shield him from reality.
“Step away from the noise. Reach inward to your conscience. Reflect. Reconnect. And emerge with bold, groundbreaking policies that can lift our people from despair to hope,” he said.
Ojudu reminded Tinubu that the solutions to Nigeria’s problems are not far-fetched, citing the political philosophy and economic blueprints of Chief Obafemi Awolowo as a resource.
“This is not rocket science. The blueprint for national development already exists—in the writings and legacies of leaders like Awolowo. Reach for those books. Tweak the data. Then act—with urgency and sincerity.”
He called on Tinubu to assemble a truly national team of capable Nigerians, cautioning against regional bias or over-reliance on familiar faces from Lagos or the Southwest.
“Lagos is not Yoruba. Lagos is not Nigeria,” he stressed. “Take a cue from former Presidents Ibrahim Babangida and Olusegun Obasanjo. Despite their imperfections, they built Team Nigeria, not Team Niger or Team Egba. You should reflect on this. If you’re able to do the same—and inject your team with vision, purpose, and hard work—you will emerge as the best President Nigeria has ever had.”
“The people are not thinking about the next election—what matters is the next meal.”
Ojudu emphasized that while politicians may obsess over elections, the average Nigerian is consumed by the urgency of survival.
“Don’t let anyone deceive you into thinking the next election is what matters most. For most Nigerians, it’s the next meal, the next hospital bill, the next rent, the next school fee. These are the real priorities.”
He urged Tinubu to govern with empathy and a sense of urgency, assuring him that sincere efforts to improve people’s lives will win him not only political goodwill but also a permanent place in the hearts of Nigerians.
“If the people see your heart and your resolve, your second term—if you desire one—will come without struggle.”
Calling the moment a possible turning point, Ojudu offered a biblical metaphor: “Let this birthday be a Saul-to-Paul moment. Govern with empathy. Lead with justice. Serve with humility.”
“You have been greatly blessed. Now is the time to give back.”
Ojudu concluded by appealing to President Tinubu to focus less on personal glory and more on building a legacy of selfless service.
“When your time in office ends, may you be able to raise your head high, knowing you gave it your all—and that Nigeria was better because you passed this way.”
and then