Tinubu Celebrates El-Rufai’s 65th Birthday Despite Growing Backlash and Criticism

Despite recent tensions and criticism from El-Rufai,  President Bola Tinubu has wished the former governor of Kaduna State, a happy 65th birthday.

Tinubu and El-Rufai’s relationship has reportedly degenerated recently, with the former governor publicly condemning All Progressives Congress (APC) government and charging the president’s close associates with ethnic politics.

However, Tinubu commended El-Rufai as a politician, administrator, and scholar in a statement issued on Sunday, February 16, 2025, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

El-Rufai’s contributions to democracy, his devoted service to the country, and his role as a mentor to the younger generation were also acknowledged by him.

“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mallam Nasir Ahmad @elrufai on his 65th birthday.

Mallam El-Rufai is an administrator, scholar, and politician. He is a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and highly regarded for his resourcefulness and brilliance.

He served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years, and prior to elective office, he had served as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007.

President Tinubu celebrates Mallam El-Rufai on this occasion and commends his endeavours for democracy; his meritorious service to the nation, and mentorship of the younger generation. 

The President acknowledges Mallam El-Rufai’s role in the dialogues leading up to the formation of the APC and his contributions to the success of the party in the three consecutive elections of 2015, 2019, and 2023.

President Tinubu wishes El-Rufai good health and strength for continuous service to the nation.”