By: Temitope Mustapha, Abuja.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extolled the virtues of renowned journalist, public intellectual, and former presidential adviser, Dr. Reuben Abati, describing him as a versatile professional who has distinguished himself across multiple spheres of national life.
In a congratulatory message issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday, the President celebrated Dr. Abati on his 60th birthday, commending his exceptional career as a writer, columnist, author, broadcaster, and public affairs analyst whose work continues to enlighten and inspire Nigerians.
President Tinubu noted that Dr. Abati’s professional journey from his days in academia to his role as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian, and his current engagement as a prominent television anchor reflects his enduring commitment to excellence, intellectual inquiry, and national service.
The President lauded the veteran journalist for his service to the nation as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, highlighting his patriotism and creativity as a public commentator who consistently engages issues of national importance with clarity and depth.
“I congratulate Dr Abati, whom I fondly call Rubi Rubi, on the presentation of three books on his birthday, titled: “Portraits: People, Politics and Society”, “A Love Letter and Other Stories”, and “How Goodluck Jonathan Became President”.
“His insightful articles, regular interventions and television analyses have continued to enlighten and inspire,” the President added.
He joined members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), family, friends, and associates in celebrating the milestone of a man he described as a notable writer and enduring voice of reason in Nigeria’s media space.
Olusola Akintonde