President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd.) on his 88th birthday, extolling the former Chief of Army Staff as a distinguished statesman whose life and career have profoundly impacted Nigeria’s unity, stability, and national development.
In a congratulatory message personally written by the president to the elder statesman, President Tinubu said General Danjuma has served Nigeria with “undivided loyalty”, both in uniform and in retirement, noting that his contributions remain a reference point for courage, discipline, and honour.
The President stated that General Danjuma’s life is inseparable from Nigeria’s own historical evolution, recalling his pivotal role during some of the country’s most challenging periods when national unity was fragile and the future uncertain.
According to him, the retired general “stood firm” and helped steady the nation at critical moments.
“At eighty-eight, he stands as an elder whose life has helped shape the direction of our nation. He has lived with purpose and served with courage – essential qualities that define the finest citizens of our republic.
“As General Danjuma celebrates this birthday, I thank Almighty God for the grace that has carried him through the years. I pray that He continues to bless him with health, strength and peace. May the years ahead bring greater fulfilment and the quiet satisfaction of knowing that his life has touched many across Nigeria,” the President added.
Beyond his military career, President Tinubu lauded General Danjuma for continuing to shape national discourse through his wise counsel and unwavering faith in Nigeria.
The President mentioned that many leaders have drawn strength from Danjuma’s clarity of thought and readiness to offer guidance whenever the country required a steady and experienced voice.
The Nigerian leader further highlighted the far-reaching humanitarian work of the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, describing it as one of the most respected philanthropic institutions on the continent.
He noted that the foundation has opened doors of opportunity and dignity for countless families across Nigeria, ensuring that the General’s influence extends well beyond public service.
“General Danjuma’s story is tied to our country’s story. He served Nigeria at a time when our young nation faced severe trials. He stood firm when unity was fragile, and the path ahead was uncertain. His sense of duty helped steady the country, and his record of service remains a reference point for discipline and honour.
“Beyond his years in uniform, he has continued to shape the national conversation through wise counsel and personal example. Any time he speaks on national issues, he does so with unmistakable clarity and an unwavering belief in Nigeria. Many leaders, including me, have drawn strength from General Danjuma’s willingness to offer guidance whenever the moment required a steady voice.
“His commitment to humanity has also left a lasting mark. Through the T. Y. Danjuma Foundation, he opened doors for countless families in need of support and dignity. The work he started through the foundation has grown into one of the most respected philanthropic institutions on the continent. Its impact will remain long after all of us have left the stage.
President Tinubu thanked God for sustaining the elder statesman and prayed for continued health, strength, and peace as he celebrates another year.