Tinubu Lauds Falae's Enduring Democratic Impact on His 88th Birthday

Nigeria's President, Bola Tinubu, has extended his felicitations to Chief Samuel Falae, a respected elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, as he marks his 88th birthday. Chief Falae, who also held the portfolio of Minister of Finance and was instrumental in co-founding the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), reached the age of 88 on Monday, September 21, 2026.

A statement released on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, conveyed President Tinubu's sentiments. In it, Tinubu characterized Chief Falae as an exemplary Nigerian whose significant input into the nation's political evolution and democratic growth has secured his lasting legacy within Nigeria's historical records.

President Tinubu specifically highlighted Chief Falae's illustrious career in public service, making special mention of his time as the SGF and Minister of Finance, alongside his broader administrative contributions. Furthermore, the President acknowledged the elder statesman's pivotal involvement in the pro-democracy struggle and his dedicated endeavors to reinstate democratic governance during what was undoubtedly one of the most trying eras in Nigeria's political narrative.

President Tinubu was quoted as saying, “Chief Falae embodies a patriot whose entire life demonstrates profound dedication to serving our country. As a co-founder and leading personality within the NADECO movement, he stood among those Nigerians who championed the return of democratic governance and upheld the tenets of constitutional rule and the fundamental rights of citizens, often at great personal risk. His immense contributions to public administration, economic advancement, and the fight for democracy represent crucial segments of our national story. On this significant occasion, I commend your exceptional bravery, insight, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria. Your generation played an indispensable role in safeguarding the political liberation of our populace, and their sacrifices serve as a constant reminder of our shared duty to fortify our democracy and construct a more prosperous nation.”

President Tinubu concluded by offering prayers for Chief Falae, wishing him continued good health, enhanced wisdom, and renewed vigor to persist in his valuable contributions to Nigeria's growth. Chief Falae's distinguished place in Nigeria's political annals stems from his service as both Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Minister of Finance, a career trajectory that led him into the forefront of the pro-democracy movement ignited by the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. He was notably a key personality within NADECO, a coalition dedicated to advocating for the re-establishment of democratic governance during the period of military rule.