President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a warm tribute to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, as he celebrates his 80th birthday on October 28, 2025.
In a heartfelt message, President Tinubu described Senator Ibrahim as more than a friend, calling him a brother and a true patriot who has spent his life serving Nigeria with honesty and courage.
The President recalled their first meeting in 1992 during the short-lived Third Republic when both served in the Senate — Senator Ibrahim representing Katsina South under the National Republican Convention (NRC), and Tinubu representing Lagos West under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Despite belonging to different parties, Tinubu said their friendship was built on shared values of justice, democracy, and good governance.
“Since we first met in the Senate chambers in 1992, our friendship has only grown deeper and stronger,” the President said. “Our bond has always gone beyond politics. It is based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to democratic ideals.”
President Tinubu praised Senator Ibrahim’s long service to the people of Katsina State, where he was re-elected to the Senate in 2003 and 2011. He described him as a principled leader who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents and promote unity across Nigeria.
Tinubu also recounted their joint struggle against military rule in the early 1990s. After the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, both men were among the senators who reconvened in Lagos to protest the decision. Their bold stand led to their arrest and detention. Tinubu recalled that when the authorities tried to release Senator Ibrahim first, he refused to leave the cell until all detained senators were freed.
“That moment showed the depth of his courage and loyalty,” the President said. “He stood in the line of fire for democracy.”
Tinubu also commended Senator Ibrahim’s role in the creation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, describing him as one of the key figures who helped unite different political groups to form the party. He noted that Ibrahim has always worked for peace, unity, and progress within the APC and the country.
As one of his strongest supporters during the 2023 presidential campaign, Senator Ibrahim joined President Tinubu on the road across Nigeria, urging people to believe in the vision of renewed hope. Tinubu said his friend continues to offer wise counsel and support for the success of his administration.
“Senator Ibrahim’s loyalty, wisdom, and dedication to the Nigerian people are beyond measure,” Tinubu said. “He is a true democrat who has remained firm in his beliefs and service to the nation.”
The President prayed for long life, good health, and strength for Senator Ibrahim, thanking him for decades of friendship and partnership.
“Abu Ibrahim has been a brother to me and a steadfast ally in the struggle for democracy,” President Tinubu said. “I wish him many more years of good health, happiness, and continued service to our country.”
