President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi have congratulated former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on his 70th birthday, recognising his contributions to Nigerian politics and decades of public service.
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso celebrated his birthday on October 21, 2026, receiving goodwill messages from the President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
In separate tributes, President Bola Tinubu reflected on his longstanding relationship with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, while Peter Obi highlighted their political partnership and shared aspirations for Nigeria’s development.
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In his birthday message, President Bola Tinubu described Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as a friend, an influential figure and a progressive politician.
The President recalled that their relationship dates back to 1992, when Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso served in the House of Representatives while he was a senator.
Their political paths crossed again in 1999, when both emerged as governors of their respective states.
Tinubu also recalled their collaboration in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, noting that their political paths had been shaped by different choices over the years.
The President acknowledged Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s service as a two term governor of Kano State, former Minister of Defence, former senator and former presidential candidate.
Despite their current political differences, President Bola Tinubu said his personal regard for the former governor remained unchanged.
“That we are in different political parties and competing on different platforms in the January 2027 election will not remove my affection for Senator Kwankwaso,” President Bola Tinubu stated.
He wished Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso good health, personal fulfilment and many more years of participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Peter Obi Commends Kwankwaso’s Wealth Of Experience
Peter Obi also congratulated Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing him as an accomplished public servant, elder brother, friend and partner.
In his tribute, Peter Obi said their relationship had strengthened through conversations and a shared commitment to national development.
He highlighted Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s experience in the legislature, the Federal Executive Council, the Kano State Government and other areas of national public life.
Peter Obi described the birthday as an opportunity to reflect on a life devoted to service and the experience gained through decades of political engagement.
He also expressed hope that their partnership would contribute to building a Nigeria where citizens have access to opportunities, families can overcome poverty and everyone can live with dignity, security and hope.
Peter Obi wished Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso renewed strength, wisdom, good health and many more productive years.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress also congratulated Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in a statement issued by its National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses, on behalf of the party’s leadership, members and supporters.
The party praised his experience in public service, describing him as a symbol of courage, progressive politics and people centred leadership.
It highlighted his political influence in Kano State, including the Kwankwasiyya political movement, and his service as governor, senator and minister.
The NDC said Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s experience and grassroots appeal had strengthened its political partnership with Obi ahead of the 2027 general election.
The party also reaffirmed its commitment to building a Nigeria that provides greater opportunities for citizens and responds to their needs.
