Tinubu Praises Gbenga Daniel’s Legacy, Loyalty At 70

President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Senator Gbenga Daniel, a renowned engineer, entrepreneur, and politician, on his 70th birthday, praising his legacy of service, professional accomplishments and enduring loyalty.

In a statement he signed, the President described Daniel as a longtime ally and friend whose contributions to Nigeria’s development have remained significant over the years.

Tinubu saluted the former Ogun State governor for his “professional exploits, governance strides and political achievements,” noting that these were attained through hard work, tenacity, wisdom, and courage.

He said Daniel had carved a niche for himself in national life through a rich professional career and sustained service to the country.

The President recalled that Daniel was born into a strict Christian family, with his father a notable missionary of the Church of the Lord, adding that the sound ethical upbringing he received prepared him for the impactful life he has lived.

Tinubu highlighted Daniel’s entrepreneurial achievements, noting that he founded the electro-mechanical engineering firm, Kresta Laurel, in 1990, which has grown into a leader in elevator installation and maintenance in Nigeria, handling major engineering projects.

He said Daniel replicated his private sector success in governance following his election as governor of Ogun State in 2003, where his administration focused on industrialisation, public-private partnerships, education, and infrastructure development.

According to the President, key legacies of Daniel’s tenure include the initiation of the first agro-allied cargo airport in Ogun State and the establishment of Tai Solarin University of Education.

Tinubu also noted that Daniel has continued to contribute to national development, having been elected in 2023 as Senator representing Ogun East.

Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, the President recalled Daniel’s role in his own political journey, particularly during the build-up to his election and inauguration as governor of Lagos State in 1999.

“As a mark of the close relationship Otunba and I have built, in the build-up to my election and inauguration as governor of Lagos State in 1999, OGD worked closely with me and others to ensure my election victory, a successful inauguration, and a seamless transition,” Tinubu said.

He added that Daniel also mobilised the Heritage Group, comprising Yoruba professionals, to support his election at the time.

Tinubu further commended Daniel’s political trajectory and described him as a progressive politician and a true Afenifere, noting that although he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, under which platform he was elected governor in 2003, he has since returned to the progressive fold.

The President expressed satisfaction that Daniel is now a frontline leader in the governing All Progressives Congress (APC).

“As Otunba clocks 70, I thank him, on behalf of our teeming APC members and the entire nation, for his service to Ogun State and Nigeria, and his commitment to the socio-political and economic development of Nigeria,” Tinubu said.

He wished the celebrant many more years in good health and continued meaningful contributions to the country, praying that his impact would continue to grow and endure.

Tinubu also conveyed the goodwill of his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and his family, wishing Daniel, his wife, Olufunke, and the entire Daniel family God’s abiding grace and enduring love.

“Happy birthday, Otunba Daniel. Happy birthday, OGD,” the President added.