In a statement on Monday, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to
the president on information and strategy, said Tinubu described Kwankwaso as
an “influential politician”.

The president also said Kwankwaso has made notable
contributions to national development through various leadership roles.

“He rejoices with Kwankwaso’s family, friends and political
associates as they mark this special day,” the statement reads.

“The president acknowledges Kwankwaso’s invaluable services
to the country in the various leadership positions he has held.

“As former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives in
the aborted third republic, governor of Kano State for two terms, minister of
defence and senator representing Kano central senatorial district, Kwankwaso
has made his mark and contributed greatly to national development.

“President Tinubu affirms that the senator’s growing
influence in the north, particularly in Kano State, highlights his pro-people
politics, reminiscent of the politics of the late Mallam Aminu Kano and the
late Alhaji Abubakar Rimi.

“Senator Kwankwaso remains a friend and ally with whom I
served in the National Assembly in 1992 and later as governors in 1999.

“We also worked together in founding the All Progressives
Congress. Although he later left the APC to establish the New Nigeria Peoples
Party, it is noteworthy that he remains within the progressive fold.”

Tinubu also prayed for Kwankwaso’s good health and many more
years of impactful service to the country.