President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Senator Gbenga Daniel on his 70th birthday, describing him as a renowned engineer, successful entrepreneur, prominent politician, and long-time ally and friend.
In a personally written congratulatory message to the celebrant, President Tinubu hailed his professional exploits, governance strides, and political achievements, noting that they were attained through hard work, tenacity, wisdom, and courage.
The President noted that Otunba Daniel has, over the years, carved a niche for himself through his rich professional career, service, and contributions to Nigeria.
He recalled that the former Ogun State governor was born into a strict Christian family and received a sound ethical education that prepared him for “the impactful life he has had.”.
President Tinubu also highlighted Daniel’s business accomplishments, noting that “after his educational pursuits and professional training, he founded the electro-mechanical engineering firm Kresta Laurel in 1990.” The enviable heights the company has attained so far should not be surprising, given Otunba’s business acumen, hunger for success, and determination. Kresta Laurel has handled major engineering projects and has become a leader in elevator installation and maintenance in Nigeria.
Reflecting on his political and governance journey, the President said Daniel replicated his private sector success in public service, especially following his election as Governor of Ogun State in 2003.
He noted that the Daniel administration focused on industrialisation, public-private partnerships, education, and infrastructure development, with part of its legacy including the inauguration of the first agro-allied cargo airport in the state and the establishment of Tai Solarin University of Education. He added that Daniel continued his service to Ogun State through his election in 2023 as Senator representing Ogun East.
President Tinubu also recalled the close relationship between them, saying Daniel worked closely with him and others in the build-up to his election and inauguration as Governor of Lagos State in 1999.
“As a mark of the close relationship Otunba and I have built, in the build-up to my election and inauguration as governor of Lagos State in 1999, OGD worked closely with me and others to ensure my election victory, a successful inauguration, and a seamless transition. I recall that he also mobilised the Heritage Group, comprising Yoruba professionals, to support my election.”
I must also highlight Otunba Daniel’s political trajectory and commend his doggedness. OGD is a progressive politician and a true Afenifere. Though after we all worked together as members of the Alliance for Democracy in 1998/99, Otunba defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, on which platform he was elected governor in 2003. However, I’m glad that he has returned to the progressive fold, and he is today a frontline leader in our governing All Progressives Congress.
As Otunba Daniel clocks 70, President Tinubu thanked him on behalf of APC members and the nation for his service to Ogun State and Nigeria, as well as his commitment to the socio-political and economic development of the country. He wished him many more years in excellent health and prayed that his impact would continue to grow and endure.
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