Buhari, Tinubu have same character, says SGF Lawal

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, an Engineer, yesterday described  President Muhammadu Buhari and a national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, as selfless and generous leaders whose commitment to the  good of all is legendary.

The duo, Lawal said at a thanksgiving service at ECWA Church, Wuse, Abuja on his recent appointment, share a passion for serving humanity.

The SGF who is a long standing friend of the President said he has learned the value of loyalty and the virtues of integrity and love from Buhari.

He also said that the president could be extremely emotional, especially if he finds people suffering.

He said the country is in safe hands under the leadership of President Mohammadu Buhari, adding: “The country is in safe hands and we will try our best to deliver the change the All Progressives Congress (APC) promised Nigerians, we have no time to waste in ensuring this.” he said.

He also said that the ministerial nominees would do well to advance the course of the nation and the people once they assume office.

He said Tinubu is selfless and generous to a fault.

“Tinubu made an impression on me, he is generous, he will give you what you require and even more.”

Tinubu speaking through Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State at the occasion threw his weight behind President Buhari on his appointment of Engineer Lawal as SGF.

He hailed Lawal’s choice as a step in the right direction and was optimistic that the SGF  would bring his wealth of experience to bear in the office.

Tinubu extolled Lawal’s qualities, saying that while some of his contemporaries have succumbed to the temptation of illicit wealth and the abuse of power and privilege, he (Lawal) has remained faithful to the course of the nation.

“If you are looking for a man who is diligent in his work with a keen eye for details and correct process, there is none better than Babachir Lawal,” Tinubu said.

He added: “He knows this nation and understands its complexities, from the intricacies of our federal bureaucracy to the diversity of our social fabric to the, multiple dimensions of our political dynamics.

“He is a man well-tailored to fit his position in today’s Nigeria where we find ourselves in a situation not meant for the faint hearted. A situation that requires grit, guts and wisdom.  These attributes, Lawal has in abundance”.

Tinubu said that despite the qualities the SGF possesses, he has remained humble, a trait he said is rare in the nation’s political climate.

“He is humble and does not need to see his name in the spotlight. As long as the job is done correctly, he is happy. He does not seek credit even when duly deserved. This humility and self-contentment is not a common thing, especially in the arena of politics and government”.

He expressed confidence that Lawal will ensure that operations of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration will be conducted smoothly and professionally.

“He will do his utmost to do the best for all of Nigeria. He plays no favorites and is not one to operate under the veil of bias or discrimination. This big often gruff man also has a big heart and that heart is dedicated to good of our beloved land.”

In his remarks, the APC National Chairman, Mr. John Odigie-Oyegun, called the SGF a man of impeccable character, humble to a fault and “brutally frank and ferocious in defending whatever he believes in.”