President Bola Tinubu last night revealed how the economic crisis triggered by the naira redesign policy nearly forced him to quit the 2023 presidential race.
Speaking at a special Iftar at the State House in Abuja, the President recounted how a conversation with a close relative almost made him reconsider his ambition.
The Iftar coincided with his 73rd birthday and he used the opportunity to express appreciation to Nigerians for their outpouring of goodwill and prayers during the birthday.
His predecessor, General Muhammadu Buhari reminisced on his relationship with Tinubu and said he was proud of the deep bond between them.
Buhari ,in a telephone chat with the president to congratulate him on his 73rd birthday was full of praise for him for his contributions to the country.
Ex-military president ,General Ibrahim Babangida said Tinubu’s leadership intervention thus far, has been “very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging
More congratulatory messages for the president also came yesterday from the Ooni of Ife ,Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi,state governors and other members of the political class as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa who credited Tinubu’s leadership role with what he called the military’s recent successes against terrorism and other security challenges in the country.
Tinubu at yesterday’s Iftar thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the nation’s development.
His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted him as acknowledging the challenges he faced in the presidential race and reaffirming his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s progress.
At the Iftar were First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, principal officers of the National Assembly, current and former governors, diplomats, business leaders, religious figures, and some of the President’s childhood friends.
Dr. Abdulkadir Sholagberu, Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, led special prayers seeking divine guidance and continued progress for the President and the nation.
Reflecting on the challenges of the 2023 presidential race,Tinubu spoke of when he contemplated withdrawing from the contest following an encounter with a close relative.
