President Bola Tinubu on Monday congratulated the Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, on his 70th birthday.
Tinubu, alongside governors of Lagos and Ogun states, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Dapo Abiodun, respectively, extolled the political vibrancy of Bakare in Nigeria, and his spiritual leadership at the church over the years.
The President and governors spoke at the birthday service held in honour of the celebrant at The Citadel, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Lagos.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the President said “We gather here to celebrate a true man of God.
“It gives me great joy to join you in honouring a man whose life has been an embodiment of passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness.”
Tinubu said, “Pastor Bakare, fondly called P.T.B., has been a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless in our society. His influence as a spiritual leader, nation builder, and advocate for truth has left an indelible mark, not just on those who follow his teachings, but on the nation as a whole.
“His decades of service and dedication to the principles of honesty, transparency, and fairness have earned him the respect and admiration of many across this nation and beyond.
“This celebration is a testament to a life of strength and courage. Your powerful messages and fearless advocacy speak volumes of your dedication to uplifting humanity. It is these values that have allowed you to make such a difference, both on the pulpit and in the larger society of these groups.”
Also, in a Monday statement by his Special Adviser, Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said Bakare, being a distinguished lawyer, pastor, leader, author, advocate for good governance, and politician, had significantly contributed to Nigerian society.
“On this occasion, the President joins Pastor Bakare’s family, friends, and the Christian community to celebrate his profound impact as a religious leader and gadfly.
“President Tinubu reflects on Pastor Bakare’s bold and patriotic efforts to advocate for a better Nigeria. As a co-convener of the Save Nigeria Group, he was pivotal in leading civil demonstrations during critical periods in our nation’s history.”
The statement noted that the President “recognises Bakare’s unwavering faith and relentless dedication to advancing vital causes for the betterment of society.”
On his part, Sanwo-Olu described Bakare as a mentor and father whom government officials listened to.
“Pastor Tunde Bakare, you are not just a father for all of us. You are a mentor. You are a man who in all the complexities of understanding, you stand up for fairness, equity and justice.
“We thank God for who you are, for what indeed you have been, what you have turned to, what you have nurtured several of us into. We all listen to you. We all listen to you when you walk on this pulpit.
“Sometimes we never know what is going to come out in the very next minute. And so because we don’t know, we are glued to our seats, expecting another (thing).
“But in all of it, sir, there is clarity, because indeed, you are a vessel of God that is being used.”
Abiodun said Pastor Bakare had made life a “one of purpose and one of significance.
“He has devoted his life to humanity’s upliftment, tirelessly championing social justice, peace, and national progress. Through it all, he has remained unyielding in his faith, inspiring countless individuals, and leaving an indelible mark on our society.
“From establishing this amazing church, the Citadel Global Community Church, to resonating profound truths from the pulpits, his influence is felt not only within these walls but throughout the nation and beyond.
“The impact of his words and actions testifies to the enduring power of conviction and compassion,” Abiodun said.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of Bakare’s book, titled “The Last, But Definitely Not The Least – The Autobiography of Pastor Tunde Bakare.”
Thanking the attendees, an elated Bakare said he was “so grateful that you are here and that you have added colour to today’s ceremony. I want to thank you for coming here today.”
The cleric and political gladiator also touched on the state of the nation, saying “Listen, there is a lot to give to our country.
“A lot to do for this nation to turn to the right side. I want to appeal to you on this day to think of the nation first. Let’s be less concerned about what we can get out of this nation. Let us think of how to make this nation a better place to live in.”
In the political space, Bakare said, “Every opportunity Christians have to step into the government, step in there.”
He urged Christians to “be the salt of the earth and the light of the world and make a difference in a perverse and crooked generation.”
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including former governors of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and Gbenga Daniel.
Others were the former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai; the former governor of Ekiti, Kayode Fayemi; the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Aremu Gbadebo, and the Osile of Oke Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, among others.
Representatives of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, and other traditional rulers were also present.
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, was represented by his son, Leke.