Distinguished statesman, gentleman, Tinubu hails T.Y. Danjuma at 87

File: Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.)

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President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday praised ex-Defence Minister, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), on his 87th birthday, describing him as “a distinguished statesman, soldier and gentleman” who served Nigeria “with undivided loyalty” in both war and peace.

In a goodwill message he personally signed, Tinubu said Danjuma’s life is inseparable from Nigeria’s post-independence story, noting that the ex-army chief “stood firm when unity was fragile, and the path ahead was uncertain.”

“This is a moment that invites reflection on a remarkable life of service and on the many seasons he has walked through with courage and conviction.

“General Danjuma’s story is tied to our country’s story. He served Nigeria at a time when our young nation faced severe trials.

“His sense of duty helped steady the country, and his record of service remains a reference point for discipline and honour,” Tinubu said.

The President added that the elder statesman has continued to shape public debate since leaving office, offering “wise counsel and personal example.”

“Any time he speaks on national issues, he does so with unmistakable clarity and an unwavering belief in Nigeria. Many leaders, including me, have drawn strength from General Danjuma’s willingness to offer guidance whenever the moment required a steady voice,” Tinubu noted.

He also praised the philanthropic work of the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, saying it has “opened doors for countless families in need of support and dignity and grown into one of the most respected philanthropic institutions on the continent.”

Tinubu said of Danjuma, “At eighty-seven, he stands as an elder whose life has helped shape the direction of our nation. He has lived with purpose and served with courage.”

The President prayed that God grants the Taraba-born general health, strength, and peace.

“As General Danjuma celebrates this birthday, I thank Almighty God for the grace that has carried him through the years.

“I pray that He continues to bless him with health, strength and peace. May the years ahead bring greater fulfilment and the quiet satisfaction of knowing that his life has touched many across Nigeria.”

Danjuma, a former Chief of Army Staff (1975–1979) and Defence Minister (1999–2003), played key roles in the Nigerian Army during and after the civil war.

A businessman and investor, he founded the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation in 2009 to support health, education, and economic empowerment programmes across the country.

With three years of experience, Stephen, The PUNCH correspondent, has been covering Nigeria’s presidency, politics, security, immigration and trafficking in persons

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