President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to former secretary to the government of the federation, Boss Mustapha, on his 70th birthday.

In a tribute to commemorate the milestone in Abuja, Mr Tinubu described Mustapha as “an exceptional leader, bridge-builder, and a pillar of the nation’s public service”.

The president commended Mr Mustapha’s seven decades of life, noting that the former SGF’s career has been defined by humility, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Reflecting on Mr Mustapha’s tenure as SGF from 2017 to 2023 under then-President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr Tinubu praised his quiet efficiency in steering the Federal Executive Council and coordinating key government policies through turbulent periods.

He highlighted Mr Mustapha’s leadership as chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, crediting his calm stewardship during the global health crisis with saving millions of lives and positioning Nigeria as a model for epidemic response across Africa and beyond.

“Boss discharged his duties in a way that made Nigeria a shining example in Africa and beyond in combating that public health emergency. For this, our country must remain forever grateful to him,” the president stated.

Beyond his executive service, the president recalled their shared history in Nigeria’s political evolution. He highlighted their joint struggles during the historic June 12 movement, when Mr Mustapha served as chairman of the Adamawa chapter of the Social Democratic Party.

Mr Tinubu also acknowledged Mr Mustapha’s pivotal role as deputy national chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria.

“Working alongside Chief Bisi Akande and other political leaders, Mustapha helped engineer the historic merger with the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and other legacy parties to form the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),” he said.

Describing him as a legal practitioner, manager, and dedicated family man from Adamawa, Mr Tinubu restated that Mr Mustapha embodies the finest traditions of Nigerian public service and has earned cross-party respect through his tact and integrity.

(NAN)