Tinubu celebrates Falae at 88, hails contribution to democracy - Punch Newspapers
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Samuel Falae, on his 88th birthday. Falae, who also served as Minister of Finance and co-founded the National Democratic Coalition, turned 88 on Monday, September 21, 2026. In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Falae as one of the Nigerians whose contributions to the country’s political and democratic development had earned him an enduring place in Nigeria’s history. Tinubu commended Falae’s distinguished public service, particularly his tenure as SGF and Minister of Finance, as well as his contributions as an administrator. The President also praised the elder statesman’s role in the pro-democracy movement and his efforts to restore democratic rule during one of the most challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google Tinubu said, “Chief Falae is a patriot whose life reflects a deep commitment to the service of our nation. As a co-founder and prominent figure in the NADECO movement, he was among Nigerians who advocated the restoration of democratic governance and defended the principles of constitutional rule and citizens’ rights even at a risk to their lives. Wike defends rainbow coalition, says ‘Tinubu’s re-election my priority’ Tinubu will win 2027 presidential election — Ondo senator Tinubu mourns ex-Kogi governor, says death painful loss “His contributions to public administration, economic development and the struggle for democracy are significant chapters in our national journey. “On this Special day, I celebrate your extraordinary courage, wisdom and dedication to Nigeria. Your generation played an important role in defending the political emancipation of our people, and their sacrifice reminds us of our collective responsibility to strengthen our democracy and build a more prosperous nation.” The President prayed that God would grant Falae good health, wisdom and renewed strength to continue contributing to Nigeria’s development. Falae, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political history, served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Minister of Finance before becoming involved in the pro-democracy struggle that followed the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. He was among the prominent figures associated with NADECO, a pro-democracy group that advocated the restoration of democratic rule during the military era. Princess Etuk Princess Etuk is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over five years of experience covering national development and the economy. She focuses on public policy, infrastructure, agriculture, and related sectors, producing insightful features and exclusive reports. Princess’s work reflects a strong commitment to accountability journalism, sectoral development reporting, and informed public dialogue.
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