Tag: T.Y. Danjuma

  • Dogara extols General T.Y. Danjuma at 87

    Dogara extols General T.Y. Danjuma at 87

    • …says Nigeria is safer because of his courage

    Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has celebrated elder statesman General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (GCON), describing him as one of the most courageous guardians of Nigeria’s unity and stability as he marks his 87th birthday.

    In a tribute released in honour of the retired General, Dogara said Danjuma’s name is etched into the pillars of Nigeria’s history because of his unusual bravery, principled leadership, and lifelong commitment to the defence of national integrity. 

    He noted that the former Chief of Army Staff stood at the intersection of some of Nigeria’s most decisive moments and consistently acted in defence of the nation’s survival.

    Dogara stated that Danjuma represents a generation of soldiers who understood that patriotism required both sacrifice and moral clarity. 

    According to him, the retired General’s contributions helped preserve a nation that was once on the brink, making him an enduring symbol of courage in uniform and out of service.

    He emphasized that Danjuma’s post-military life expanded his impact far beyond national defence, as he transformed into a humanitarian pillar whose generosity has touched millions across the country. 

    He commended the T. Y. Danjuma Foundation for leading interventions in healthcare, education, emergency relief, and community support, describing it as “one of Nigeria’s most consistent engines of hope.”

    Dogara further praised Danjuma’s rare boldness in public discourse, noting that the elder statesman has often spoken up when silence was the easier option. He said Danjuma’s voice has remained a moral compass for leaders, reminding them of their responsibility to the people and the dangers of drifting away from justice and accountability.

    “At 86, General T. Y. Danjuma stands tall as a national sentinel,” Dogara said. “He is one of the men whose courage has shaped Nigeria’s destiny. His integrity, forthrightness, and deep sense of duty continue to guide our country at a time when clarity and courage are desperately needed.”

    On behalf of the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited and in his personal capacity, Dogara prayed for good health, strength, and long life for the elder statesman. 

    He described him as “a patriot whose footsteps will guide generations long after this moment.”

    Dogara concluded by saying that General Danjuma’s legacy is secure not only because of the battles he fought but because of the lives he continues to touch, the institutions he has built, and the truth he never hesitates to speak.

  • Tinubu hails T.Y. Danjuma at 88

    Tinubu hails T.Y. Danjuma at 88

    • ‘He’s pillar of national unity’

    • President salutes Akpabio on 63rd birthday

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to a former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and elder statesman, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (retd.), on yesterday’s celebration of his 88th birthday.

    The President also eulogised Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who also celebrated his 63rd birthday yesterday.

    President Tinubu described General Danjuma as a distinguished patriot whose life has shaped Nigeria’s history.

    In a goodwill message he personally issued yesterday in Abuja, President Tinubu said the former Defence Minister remains a “statesman, soldier and gentleman” who served Nigeria with total loyalty both in wartime and peacetime.

    According to the President, General Danjuma’s life mirrors the nation’s own journey through challenging seasons, noting that he stood firm during difficult periods when Nigeria’s unity was fragile and the country’s future uncertain.

    “General Danjuma’s story is tied to our country’s story. He served Nigeria at a time when our young nation faced severe trials. He stood firm when unity was fragile and the path ahead uncertain,” the President said, adding that his dedication remains a reference point for discipline, honour and patriotism.

    President Tinubu also highlighted the former defence minister’s continuing influence in national discourse, praising his readiness to offer guidance on national issues with “clarity and an unwavering belief in Nigeria”.

    He noted that many leaders, including himself, have benefited from Danjuma’s counsel at crucial moments.

    Beyond public service, the President commended the octogenarian’s philanthropic work through the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, describing it as one of Africa’s most respected charity institutions whose humanitarian impact “will remain long after all of us have left the stage”.

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    He added: “At 88, he stands as an elder whose life has helped shape the direction of our nation. He has lived with purpose and served with courage.”

    President Tinubu prayed for continued health and strength for the revered military figure, wishing him peace and fulfilment in the years ahead.

    In another goodwill message he personally issued yesterday, President Tinubu described Akpabio as “a patriot and a dedicated servant of the people,” whose commitment to the Nigerian project has remained unwavering across decades of leadership.

    The President said Senator Akpabio, who served as governor of Akwa Ibom between 2007 and 2015, left an indelible mark on the state through far-reaching infrastructural development and a bold transformation agenda that earned him the popular moniker “Uncommon Governor”.

    “He made Akwa Ibom a top competitor in the national economy, providing infrastructure and building one of the most iconic stadia in the country,” the President noted, adding that the achievements remain reference points years after his tenure.

    From the Akwa Ibom Government House, Akpabio transitioned to the Senate and later served as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, where, according to the President, he prioritised development of the oil-producing region.

    The President applauded the Senate President’s efforts to strengthen executive–legislative relations and promote initiatives that advance national peace, security and development since assuming leadership of the 10th National Assembly in June 2023.

    “As co-labourers in the service of our nation, I have always admired his strength of character and ability to remain undaunted even in the face of challenges,” President Tinubu said.

    The President saluted Akpabio’s “unwavering belief in Nigeria and commitment to its progress”.

    He prayed for continued health, strength and impactful leadership for the Senate President, as friends, associates and members of the National Assembly joined in celebrating his 63rd birthday.

  • Tinubu hails T.Y. Danjuma at 88, describes him as pillar of national unity

    Tinubu hails T.Y. Danjuma at 88, describes him as pillar of national unity

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former Chief of Army Staff and elder statesman, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), on the occasion of his 88th birthday, describing him as a distinguished patriot whose life has shaped Nigeria’s history.

    In a goodwill message he personally issued on Tuesday, President Tinubu said the former Defence Minister remains a “statesman, soldier and gentleman” who served Nigeria with total loyalty both in wartime and peacetime.

    According to the President, General Danjuma’s life mirrors the nation’s own journey through challenging seasons, noting that he stood firm during difficult periods when Nigeria’s unity was fragile and the country’s future uncertain.

    “General Danjuma’s story is tied to our country’s story. He served Nigeria at a time when our young nation faced severe trials. He stood firm when unity was fragile and the path ahead uncertain,” the President said, adding that his dedication remains a reference point for discipline, honour and patriotism.

    President Tinubu also highlighted the retired general’s continuing influence in national discourse, praising his readiness to offer guidance on national issues with “clarity and an unwavering belief in Nigeria.” 

    He noted that many leaders, including himself, have benefited from Danjuma’s counsel at crucial moments.

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    Beyond public service, the President commended the octogenarian’s philanthropic work through the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, describing it as one of Africa’s most respected charity institutions whose humanitarian impact “will remain long after all of us have left the stage.”

    “At eighty-eight, 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 added.

    Tinubu prayed for continued health and strength for the revered military figure, wishing him peace and fulfilment in the years ahead.

    General Danjuma, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s military and political history, served in various capacities including Chief of Army Staff and Minister of Defence.