President Tinubu Celebrates Alhaji Yusuf Ali’s 90th Birthday
President Bola Tinubu has expressed admiration for his longtime friend, Alhaji Yusuf Ali, who recently turned 90 on June 2. In a heartfelt message, the President described Ali as a distinguished Nigerian, a staunch nationalist, and a dedicated democrat.
“I am delighted to join family, friends, and admirers of elder statesman Alhaji Yusuf Garba Ali in commemorating this iconic Nigerian’s 90th birthday,” Tinubu stated in his tribute. He attributed Ali’s longevity and influence to his significant contributions to Nigeria’s development through his extensive career in the petroleum industry, sports administration as president of the Nigeria Football Association, and his political endeavors.
The President reminisced about his long-standing friendship with Ali, stating, “Alhaji Yusuf Ali and I have stood together through both challenging and joyous times, experiencing triumphs and setbacks. I have always found him to be an honest and sincere man, an ardent nationalist, a devoted democrat, and an unwavering friend.”
Highlighting his journey, Tinubu noted that Ali, born in Jos in 1936 to parents from Kano, cultivated strong family and community ties while mentoring numerous Nigerians in business and politics. Ali’s political journey started during the transition to the Second Republic, where he left his role as Regional Manager of Total to contest for a position in the Constituent Assembly and later served on the Rano City Council in Kano State.
Throughout his career, Ali served as Managing Director of Unipetrol for a decade. He played pivotal roles in various political organizations, including as national leader of the defunct All Peoples Party (APP) and the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and he is recognized as a founding figure of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to Tinubu, Nigeria’s democracy has greatly benefited from Ali’s wisdom and dedication.
“I have personally gained from Alhaji Ali’s steadfast friendship and insight,” said Tinubu, praising Ali’s political acumen during the establishment of the APC. He emphasized that Ali continues to be a supportive friend, particularly noted for his steadfastness during Tinubu’s journey to the presidency.
In tandem with celebrating Ali, President Tinubu extended his congratulations to acclaimed journalist and political strategist, Idowu Ajanaku, on his 60th birthday, also on June 2. In a statement released by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu recognized Ajanaku’s courage, vigor, and unwavering dedication to journalism over the decades.
The President acknowledged the vital role of public relations officers and political strategists in fostering Nigeria’s democracy and promoting good governance, particularly during the oppressive military regime. He commended Ajanaku’s loyalty and contributions as a Senior Special Assistant on Publicity and as Special Adviser on Information and Strategy in Lagos, highlighting his role in leading former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s successful media campaign and bolstering progressive movements in the South-West.
Moreover, Tinubu lauded Ajanaku for adeptly utilizing his journalism experience and networks to highlight government achievements and foster understanding of the New Hopes agenda. The President concluded by expressing his best wishes to all media professionals.
