Tinubu: Tunji Bello among the finest public servants of his generation

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Tunji Bello on the occasion of his 65th birthday, describing him as a dependable ally, accomplished public servant and steadfast advocate of progressive ideals.

In a personally signed tribute released on Tuesday ahead of Bello’s birthday on July 1, Tinubu reflected on their decades-long relationship, saying they had stood together through Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle and the country’s democratic transition.

“I rejoice with Tunji Bello, as my dependable friend, brother and long-standing ally in the progressive movement, attains 65 on July 1,” the President said.

According to Tinubu, their association spans more than three decades of political activism and public service.

“Tunji and I were engaged in the progressive struggle for more than three decades,” he stated.

Recalling the years of military rule, the President praised Bello’s commitment to democracy and principled journalism.

“In Nigeria’s struggle for democracy through the 90s, the era of military dictatorship, to the present time of civil rule, only a few people truly compare to Tunji in terms of his unflinching fidelity to progressive ideals, whether as a fearless journalist with a moral conscience standing up to brutal military juntas, or as a stellar public servant committed to diligence and excellence.”

Tinubu said Bello’s career trajectory reflected a rare combination of competence, integrity and innovation.

“As his sterling record clearly illustrates, first as editor of reputable national dailies, later as a Lagos State cabinet member, and most recently as the CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Tunji is a shining example of what is possible when competence meets creativity and character.”

The President also recalled Bello’s appointment into the Lagos State cabinet during his tenure as governor, saying he entrusted him with tackling one of the state’s most pressing challenges.

“In 2003, when we were confronted with the seemingly intractable challenge of waste management in Lagos State, I, as Governor, pulled him out of his editorial turf to join the Lagos cabinet to help drive the reforms we had outlined.”

Tinubu credited Bello with transforming the sector within a short period.

“True to his reputation, Tunji performed a miracle in a record time, so much so that successive governors found him indispensable and retained him either as Environment Commissioner to consolidate the gains in waste management in Africa’s most populous city or as the Secretary to the State Government to help enrich the broader governance framework with great ideas.”

Highlighting Bello’s strengths, Tinubu said, “Tunji brings to the table a unique versatility rooted in diverse competencies spanning political science, law, administration, and strategic communication.”

He added, “Without a doubt, Tunji is one of the most accomplished and tested top public servants of his generation in Lagos State.”

The President also explained why he chose Bello to head the FCCPC after assuming office.

“Tunji has always proved invaluable. When I assumed office as President and considered how to recalibrate consumer advocacy in line with our Renewed Hope Agenda, I could not think of a more appropriate and reliable person than Tunji.”

Tinubu said Bello had justified the confidence reposed in him through his leadership of the consumer protection agency.

“Again, true to his reputation, he has not disappointed. Many Nigerians will attest that he has made a great impact at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission within two years of assuming leadership of this strategic public institution, tasked with ensuring fair play in the marketplace and protecting Nigerian consumers.”

Concluding the tribute, the President expressed gratitude for Bello’s contributions to national development and the progressive movement while offering prayers for his continued health and service.

“I cannot thank Tunji enough for all he has done for our country and the progressive front. And so, as he turns 65, I pray that the Almighty Allah grant him many more years in good health with renewed strength to continue to serve our people and country,” Tinubu said