There is no mincing words—you embody the very essence of greatness. The story of your life is written in the ink of excellence, guided by providence, and marked by stoic distinction.
From your impeccable accomplishments as a world leader, we draw inspiration, wisdom, and a compass for what true statesmanship is all about. You are a shining example of godliness, a leader whose emergence was divine — a man of destiny, prepared to steer our nation towards great distinction at this unique time in our country’s democratic history.
Your legacy is profound, your impact undeniable, and your influence deeply felt. We are honoured to witness and partake in your journey.
Sir, as we celebrate your life, we also celebrate your esteemed leadership under your “Renewed Hope” Administration, which in just under two years has navigated our beloved country from the precipice of impending economic collapse to a thriving economy with a bright future for all Nigerians.
We reflect on both the milestones achieved and the challenges you overcame since you assumed office. From fostering diplomatic relations and bold economic reforms which have steered our country through unprecedented times, to your ability to lead resolutely and decisively with compassion and tenacity is very unique and rare. You have provided hope for the hopeless, and your concern for the future and even yet unborn generation is evident in your policies and actions.
As a two-time governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, you initiated far-reaching and multi-sectoral reforms that has placed Lagos as one of the top 5 biggest economies in Africa.
Within two years as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, your Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding impressive results: our foreign reserves have increased from 33 billion dollars to about 40 billion dollars; implementation of minimum wage increase from 30,000 naira to 70,000 naira; LGA Automomy has been passed by the Supreme Court thereby bringing governance closer to the grassroots; Federal Allocation to States have increased on average by over 300%; prices of food and staple items have dropped for the first time in our recent history particularly during this holy month of Ramadan and this is evidenced by declining inflationary numbers; the nation’s ways and means debts of over 27 trillion naira is now near zero; bold and overdue tax reforms are on the way; student loans is now a reality for the country’s youths among many other achievements. Your track record of accomplishments have unequivocally demonstrated that you are a “once in a lifetime leader”!
On this special occasion, I wish you great health, continued strength and wisdom to steer this gigantic ship called Nigeria.
On behalf of my family, the entire staff and management of the Ministry of Steel Development, I wish you a very happy birthday sir.
Happy 73rd birthday to the Asiwaju of the Universe!
Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu
Honourable Minister of Steel Development,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
March 29th, 2025.
