President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Samuel Olu Falae, on his 88th birthday.

Falae, who also served as Minister of Finance and was a co-founder of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), marked his 88th birthday on Monday.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Falae as one of the Nigerians whose contributions to the country’s political and democratic development had earned him a significant place in Nigeria’s history.

The President commended Falae’s public service, particularly his tenure as SGF and Minister of Finance, as well as his contributions to public administration and economic development.

Tinubu also praised Falae’s role in the pro-democracy movement that followed the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

He said Falae and other members of NADECO advocated the restoration of democratic governance and defended constitutional rule and citizens’ rights during the military era.

The President described Falae as a patriot whose life reflected a commitment to national service, adding that the sacrifices made by his generation remained a reminder of the responsibility to strengthen democracy and build a more prosperous Nigeria.

Tinubu prayed for Falae’s continued good health, wisdom and strength to enable him contribute further to the country’s development.

Falae previously served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation under the military administration of Gen Ibrahim Babangida and as Minister of Finance. He later became involved in the pro-democracy struggle and served as the Alliance for Democracy’s presidential candidate in the 1999 election.