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ABUJA, NIGERIA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to renowned journalist, public intellectual, and former presidential adviser, Dr.¹ Reuben Abati, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, celebrated on Friday, November 7, 2025.²

In a tribute personally signed by the President, Dr. Abati was described as a versatile professional whose impactful career has spanned academia, journalism, and public service, distinguishing him across multiple spheres of national life.³

🌟 A Versatile Public Intellectual

President Tinubu highlighted the celebrant's cross-sectoral excellence, noting his journey from a Graduate Assistant in the university to his leadership role as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian, and his current position as a prominent television anchor.⁴

“A public intellectual, author, columnist, law graduate, and broadcaster, Dr. Abati has distinguished himself wherever he has traversed...⁵ His insightful articles, regular interventions, and television analyses have continued to enlighten and inspire,” the President stated.⁶

The President also commended Dr. Abati's service to the nation as the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, acknowledging his patriotism and passion as a public commentator.⁷ He noted that Abati consistently brings his creativity, versatility, and experience to bear on issues of national interest across both traditional and social media platforms.⁸

📚 Celebrating Literary Milestones

A key highlight of the birthday celebration was the presentation of three new books authored by Dr. Abati.⁹ President Tinubu specifically congratulated him on this literary achievement:

• Portraits: People, Politics and Society

• A Love Letter and Other Stories

• How Goodluck Jonathan Became President

The President affectionately referred to the celebrant by a familiar moniker, saying, "I congratulate Dr. Abati, whom I fondly call ‘Rubi Rubi’ on the presentation of three books on his birthday..."¹⁰

🙏 Prayer for Continued Service

Concluding his message, President Tinubu joined the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), family, and friends in celebrating the notable writer, praying for his future.¹¹

"On this occasion of Abati's 60th birthday, I pray that Almighty God grant him a longer life, good health, and the inspiration to continue serving the nation and humanity. Happy Birthday, Rubi!" the statement read.

The tribute underscores the President's recognition of the media's vital role in national development, even from individuals who have historically been in the opposition's camp or critical commentators on public affairs.