As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his 74th birthday, political allies within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are using the moment not just for celebration, but to reinforce support for his leadership and ongoing reforms.
Among them is Chief Dave Padopads-Awunah, a frontline senatorial aspirant for Benue North-West, who framed the President’s milestone as a reflection of a political journey that has shaped both the ruling party and Nigeria’s current governance direction.
In a statement, Awunah described Tinubu as a pivotal figure in the evolution of the APC, noting that his role extended beyond leadership to long-term party-building and strategic consolidation.
“From the formation of the APC to its present standing, President Tinubu has remained a stabilising force,” Awunah said. “His leadership has helped define the party’s identity and direction.”
Awunah’s remarks come at a time when the APC continues to position itself around Tinubu’s reform-driven agenda, which supporters argue is aimed at resetting Nigeria’s economic and governance structures.
While acknowledging that some of the reforms have come with immediate pressures, Awunah expressed confidence in their long-term impact.
“These are not just policies for today,” he noted. “They are deliberate steps toward securing a more stable and prosperous future for Nigerians.”
The APC chieftain also aligned himself with Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, highlighting what he described as a shared commitment to democratic values and development-focused leadership.
He pointed to growing unity within the party, particularly as discussions around the 2027 general elections begin to take shape, describing the current momentum as a sign of internal cohesion.
“This is a period of consolidation for the party,” Awunah said. “There is a clear sense of direction and shared purpose.”
Beyond politics, however, the message carried a personal tone. Awunah called on supporters and Nigerians to offer prayers for the President, emphasising the importance of health and clarity in leadership.
“At 74, this is not just a celebration of age, but of service,” he said. “We pray for strength, wisdom, and the grace to continue leading the nation effectively.”
As tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, Awunah’s message underscores a broader effort within the APC to frame Tinubu’s birthday as both a moment of reflection and a reaffirmation of political loyalty ahead of future contests.