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President Bola Tinubu on Thursday paid tribute to Professor Julius Ogar Ihonvbere as the House of Representatives Leader marked his 70th birthday, describing him as “a statesman, scholar, politician, and patriot” whose life, the President said, “is, in many respects, a story of service.”
In a State House statement he personally signed, Tinubu highlighted Ihonvbere’s academic standing as a renowned political scientist and traced his public service from the lecture hall to the corridors of power. “Professor Ihonvbere has brought dignity, intellect, civility, and principle to public life,” the President said, adding that Ihonvbere demonstrated “that excellence in academia can also be replicated in public life”.
The president recalled Ihonvbere’s international experience, including his work at the Ford Foundation, where he managed the Peace and Social Justice Programme’s “Pluralism and Governance” portfolio until 2002. While at Ford, Ihonvbere “helped attract foreign aid to Nigeria’s pro‑democracy NGOs, including the Truth Commission established by President Olusegun Obasanjo”, the President noted.
He outlined four pillars of Ihonvbere’s legacy at 70: leadership in the Green Chamber, advocacy for tertiary education reform, steadfast representation of his Owan East/West Federal Constituency in Edo State, and loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC). On parliamentary leadership, Tinubu said Ihonvbere “has helped stabilise the 10th Assembly, foster bipartisan cooperation, and ensure the Renewed Hope legislative agenda moves with focus and patriotism”.
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On education, the president praised Ihonvbere’s “academic pedigree and advocacy for tertiary education reform” as a source of inspiration for younger Nigerians. He also commended the House Leader’s ties to his constituency, saying the people of Owan East/West know him “as a leader who never forgets his roots, one who delivers representation with humility”.
Tinubu emphasised the political value of Ihonvbere’s counsel, noting that “your steadfastness in the All Progressives Congress and your counsel have strengthened our collective resolve to build a more prosperous Nigeria.” He praised Ihonvbere’s “wisdom, dedication, and the grace with which you carry the burdens of leadership” and added, “Nigeria needs more of your kind of statesmanship at this critical time.”
The President concluded the tribute with prayers for the lawmaker’s well-being: “As you celebrate this 70th birthday, may God Almighty grant you renewed strength, good health, and many more years of impactful service to our nation and people. Happy 70th birthday, Leader Ihonvbere. May your light continue to shine for Nigeria.”
