Political Leaders Converge on Abuja as Tambuwal Marks 60th Birthday with National Governance Colloquium
Prominent Nigerian leaders across the political spectrum gathered in Abuja on Saturday to mark the 60th birthday of Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, using the occasion to reflect on the state of the nation and the future of democratic governance.
The event, organized as a national colloquium, took place at the Banquet Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel and attracted an array of former presidents, governors, lawmakers, and civil society figures. Rather than a routine birthday ceremony, the gathering evolved into a forum for sober discussions on Nigeria’s political direction and the responsibilities of leadership.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo presided over the occasion as chairman, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi were among the high-ranking dignitaries present.
The audience also included Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Governors Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, Emeka Ihedioha, Abdulfatah Ahmed, and Jibrilla Bindow, as well as former Speakers of the House of Representatives Patricia Etteh, Yakubu Dogara, and Aminu Masari.
Religious and civic leaders such as Bishop Matthew Kukah and Professor Pat Utomi joined politicians including Senator David Mark, Abdullahi Ganduje, Babachir Lawal, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and former Deputy Speakers Babangida Nguroje and Austin Opara, underscoring the broad national interest the event generated.
A major highlight was the keynote lecture delivered by former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Attahiru Jega.
Speaking on the theme, “The Future of Democratic Governance in Nigeria: Pathways to National Cohesion, Human Security and Economic Renewal,” Jega examined the challenges confronting Nigeria’s political system and outlined reforms required to strengthen institutions and restore public confidence.
Addressing guests, Tambuwal reflected on the country’s current difficulties and called for a renewed commitment to responsible leadership.
“Nigeria is at a critical point in its history. We require honest leadership, responsible governance, and national unity to avert a deeper crisis,” he said.
The former Sokoto State governor stressed that leaders must rise above partisanship and focus on practical solutions capable of stabilizing the nation. He added that the coming years would test the character of those entrusted with public office.
Throughout the programme, speakers paid tribute to Tambuwal’s political career, describing him as a bridge-builder who has maintained cordial relationships across party lines. Obasanjo remarked that the diversity of personalities in attendance was evidence of the respect the celebrant commands in national affairs.
The colloquium concluded with calls for greater dialogue and cooperation among Nigeria’s political class.
For many participants, the gathering served not only as a celebration of Tambuwal’s personal milestone but also as a reminder of the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the country’s democracy.
As conversations continued late into the evening, it was clear that the occasion had become more than a birthday event, emerging instead as a platform for national introspection and renewed engagement on Nigeria’s future.
