Tinubu Honors Lt Gen Akinrinade on 87th Birthday

President Bola Tinubu eulogized elder statesman and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Alani Ipoola Akinrinade (rtd), on his 87th birthday, which was celebrated on October 3, 2026. In a statement released by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Akinrinade as a distinguished military leader and principled patriot who dedicated his life to Nigeria.

He acknowledged Akinrinade's significant contributions, including his leadership during the Nigerian Civil War and his role as a leader of NADECO in the fight for democracy and the restoration of the June 12 mandate. Tinubu stated, “General Akinrinade stood on the right side of history,” emphasizing his choice of democracy over dictatorship.

The President praised Akinrinade for his ongoing service as an elder statesman and wished him robust health and many more impactful years. Additionally, Tinubu congratulated Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi on his 45th birthday, commending his legislative contributions.