Tinubu Hails Abati At 60, Says Veteran Journalist A Patriotic Public Intellectual

President Bola Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to renowned journalist, author and broadcaster, Dr. Reuben Abati, as he marks his 60th birthday.

The President described Abati as a patriotic public intellectual whose voice has continued to enlighten and inspire Nigerians.

Tinubu, in a statement he personally signed on Friday, lauded Dr. Abati’s remarkable career and his contributions to national discourse through journalism, public service, and scholarship.

“A public intellectual, author, columnist, law graduate and broadcaster, Dr. Abati has distinguished himself wherever he has traversed: in the university as a student and later as a Graduate Assistant, as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian, as a writer and presently as a television anchor,” Tinubu said.

He further praised Abati’s insightful analyses and consistent interventions on national issues, noting that his “articles, regular commentaries, and television analyses have continued to enlighten and inspire.”

Tinubu commended Abati’s patriotic service to Nigeria, especially during his tenure as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, as well as his decades-long influence in shaping responsible journalism and civic thought.

“Dr. Abati’s patriotism and passion as a public commentator who consistently brings his creativity, versatility, and cross-sectoral experience to bear on issues of national interest, both on traditional and social media, are noteworthy,” the President added.

He congratulated the veteran journalist on the presentation of his three new books — Portraits: People, Politics and Society, A Love Letter and Other Stories, and How Goodluck Jonathan Became President — describing them as valuable additions to Nigeria’s intellectual and literary landscape.

“I join the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), family members, and friends in celebrating this notable writer,” the President said.

While felicitating with Abati, whom he fondly referred to as “Rubi Rubi,” President Tinubu prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him.

“On this occasion of Abati’s 60th birthday, I pray that Almighty God grant him a longer life, good health, and the inspiration to continue serving the nation and humanity,” Tinubu said.