As he approaches his 72nd birthday on March 29, 2024, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has instructed that no festivities be arranged in his honor, reflecting the current national sentiment.
The President’s birth date has been a subject of debate, with four different years – 1952, 1954, 1955, and 1950 – listed on various documents across multiple agencies and countries. The birth year on his passport is listed as 1952, while his transcript indicates 1954. His application to Chicago State University (CSU) states 1955, and a company registered under his name in the United Kingdom lists the year as 1950.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President discouraged his associates and well-wishers nationwide from organizing any celebratory events in his name or on his behalf. He further advised against placing birthday goodwill messages in newspapers, suggesting instead that such funds be donated to charities of their choice.
Tinubu’s decision comes in light of the nation’s ongoing challenges and recent security incidents. The statement expressed his honor in leading Africa’s most populous country during these difficult times and his dedication to tirelessly working towards improving the lives of Nigerians.
The statement read, “Given the current national mood, the recent killing of our Army and Police officers in Delta State, and the surge of security breaches by criminal elements across Nigeria, there should be no birthday events or newspaper birthday goodwill messages.”
Despite recognizing the bravery of the Nigerian armed forces in rescuing kidnapped schoolchildren in Kuriga, Kaduna State, and Sokoto State, the President intends to use his birthday as a time for reflection and renewed commitment to building a more stable, secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria.
