An ex-presidential adviser on political affairs, Babafemi Ojudu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to rekindle old ideals by addressing national hardship and building an inclusive Team Nigeria.

Mr Ojudu made the call in his birthday message to the President on Saturday.

He called on Mr Tinubu to reflect deeply on the nation’s state and use his leadership to leave a lasting legacy of service, empathy, and inclusive governance.

 Describing Mr Tinubu as a former friend and confidant, Mr Ojudu recalled their time working closely as political allies and champions of democracy.

 He urged the President to remember their shared ideals and sacrifices and summon the courage and compassion that once defined his leadership.

 He stated, “Mr President, I remember when we sat together as friends, allies, and comrades in the struggle for democracy and good governance. You were once a friend and confidant. The ties that bound us were rooted in shared ideals and a vision for a better Nigeria.’’ 

Reflecting on Mr Tinubu’s former dynamism and problem-solving acumen, Mr Ojudu recalled their early years in politics.

 “I remember the risks you took and your constant pondering on our people’s conditions.“I recall your sleepless nights pouring over papers, building bridges, resolving conflicts, and making bold decisions,” Mr Ojudu said.

 Acknowledging the realities of aging, Mr Ojudu insisted that the fire within Mr Tinubu could still be reignited.

He noted, “That milk of kindness you showed as governor, that spark of genuine concern, I know is still in you. Now, more than ever, you must reach inward and bring it back. Nigeria is in crisis. Please try, and try hard.’’

He lamented the economic hardship, hunger, and insecurity affecting millions. He urged the President to separate himself from sycophants who shield him from reality.

 He stated, “Step away from the noise. Reach inward to your conscience. Reflect. Reconnect. And emerge with bold policies that can lift our people from despair to hope.”

Mr Ojudu reminded Mr Tinubu that solutions to Nigeria’s problems were not far-fetched, citing Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political philosophy and economic blueprints.

 “This is not rocket science. The blueprint for national development already exists— in the writings and legacies of leaders such as Awolowo. Reach for those books, tweak the data, then act,” he said.

 He urged Tinubu to assemble a truly national team, cautioning against regional bias or over-reliance on familiar faces from Lagos or the South-West.

He said, “Lagos is not Yoruba. Lagos is not Nigeria. Take a cue from former Presidents Ibrahim Babangida and Olusegun Obasanjo. In spite of their flaws, they built Team Nigeria, not Team Niger or Team Egba. If you do the same — and inject your team with vision, purpose, and hard work — you will emerge as the best President Nigeria has ever had. The people are not thinking about the next election; what matters is the next meal.”

Mr Ojudu emphasised that while politicians focus on elections, ordinary Nigerians struggle for survival.

 He said, “Don’t let anyone deceive you into thinking the next election is what matters most. For most Nigerians, it’s the next meal, hospital bill, rent, or school fee.”

 He urged Mr Tinubu to govern with empathy and urgency, assuring him that genuine efforts to improve lives would secure political goodwill and a place in Nigerians’ hearts.

 “If the people see your heart and resolve, your second term, if you desire one, will come without struggle. Let this birthday be a Saul-to-Paul moment. Govern with empathy. Lead with justice. Serve with humility. You have been greatly blessed. Now is the time to give back,” the former aide under President Muhammadu Buhari said.

 He urged Mr Tinubu to focus less on personal glory and more on building a legacy of selfless service.

 “When your time in office ends, may you raise your head high, knowing you gave it your all and that Nigeria was better because you passed this way,” he said.

(NAN)