The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed its pride in former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s record of performance in the service of the nation.
It made the assertion on the occasion of his 77th birthday, noting the former vice president’s capacity and competence as the Chairman of the National Economic Council under the Obasanjo/Atiku-led PDP administration between 1999 and 2007.
A statement issued on Saturday by Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary observed that Atiku’s time in that position witnessed unprecedented national productivity in all sectors and grew the economy to become one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
It added: “His role in the National Economic Council is always recognized and celebrated for helping the administration achieve vast infrastructural development, massive employment and business opportunities among other initiatives that made the PDP years in government the Nigerian Golden Years.
“Nigerians across all persuasions recognize Atiku Abubakar as the embodiment of our national unity and hope for economic recovery and they demonstrated this in their overwhelming support and massive vote for him in the 2019 and 2023 Presidential elections, which mandates were sadly subverted by suppressive and exploitative forces.
“Atiku Abubakar is a lesson in leadership. Despite his towering personality, he remains humble, friendly and accessible to all, especially the youth. He continues to demonstrate that the essence of leadership is in attending to the good, happiness and well-being of others instead of oneself.
“But for the subversion of his mandate, our nation would have been on the path of economic prosperity, massive infrastructural development and employment opportunities instead of the hardship, collapse of the Naira and general retrogression that we witness today in the country.”
As main opposition “rolls out the big drums in celebration” of the former vice president and one of the founding fathers of the party, it described him as “a quintessence of humility, a kind-hearted, humane and people-focused leader; a forthright administrator and courageous statesman, who remains unwavering in his love and commitment towards Nigerians and the unity, stability and development of our dear nation.”
“On this great day, the PDP family gives thanks to the Almighty Allah and prays to Him to grant Atiku Abubakar more wisdom, sound health and vigour in the service of our dear fatherland and humanity,” the statement added.
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