Amidst the prevailing challenges confronting Nigerians due to government policy reforms, President Bola Tinubu has made a significant decision to forgo all festivities marking his upcoming 72nd birthday.
According to a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu will reach the milestone on March 29. However, he has opted to abstain from any form of celebration and instead encouraged associates and well-wishers intending to mark the occasion to redirect their efforts towards charitable causes.
The President, through his spokesperson, has prohibited the placement of any advertorial in newspapers, radio, or television stations, stressing his desire to utilize the day for introspection and recommitment to the task of nation-building.
The statement emphasized President Tinubu’s stance on the current challenges facing the nation, particularly the recent tragic loss of officers and men from the Army and Police in Delta State, as well as the escalating security breaches orchestrated by criminal elements across various regions of Nigeria.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude for the honor of leading Africa’s foremost nation during such trying times and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians. He urged friends and associates intending to place goodwill advertorials to instead contribute the funds to charity organizations in his name.
While acknowledging the bravery of the armed forces in rescuing kidnapped children in Kuriga, Kaduna State, and Sokoto State, President Tinubu underscored his intent to utilize his birthday as an opportunity for reflection and renewed dedication towards building a more stable, secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria.
The decision reflects President Tinubu’s recognition of the prevailing national mood and his prioritization of addressing pressing issues affecting the country over personal celebrations.