President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led a wave of tributes celebrating former Ogun State governor and current senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.
Joining in the celebration were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who both commended Daniel’s enduring impact in public service and private enterprise.
In a goodwill message delivered during a thanksgiving service in Sagamu, President Tinubu described Daniel as a distinguished engineer, accomplished entrepreneur, and steadfast political ally whose contributions to national development remain significant.
The President highlighted Daniel’s journey marked by diligence, resilience, and courage, noting his success across both the private and public sectors. He recalled the founding of Kresta Laurel in 1990, an electro-mechanical engineering firm that has grown into a major player in Nigeria’s engineering space, particularly in elevator installation and maintenance.
Tinubu also praised Daniel’s tenure as Ogun State governor from 2003 to 2011, describing it as transformative. According to him, the administration prioritized industrialisation, infrastructure, education, and public-private partnerships, with landmark achievements such as the initiation of the state’s first agro-allied cargo airport and the establishment of Tai Solarin University of Education.
Now serving as senator since 2023, Daniel was commended for sustaining his contributions to governance and national development.
Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Tinubu recounted Daniel’s role in his political journey, particularly during the build-up to his 1999 election as governor of Lagos State. He described him as a committed progressive who has remained relevant across Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
At the thanksgiving service, Pastor Adeboye described Daniel as an exceptional leader among past Ogun State governors, noting his integrity and consistency in fulfilling promises. He characterized him as a man of strong values who does not take spiritual matters lightly.
Delivering a sermon centered on the importance of wisdom and accountability, Adeboye emphasized the need for individuals to live purposefully, reminding attendees that true wisdom begins with the fear of God.
Governor Abiodun, represented by his deputy, also praised Daniel as a visionary leader whose administration laid a solid foundation for growth and development in Ogun State. He added that Daniel continues to serve with passion and dedication in his current role as senator.
In his response, Daniel expressed gratitude for the outpouring of goodwill, describing his attainment of 70 years as deeply fulfilling. He acknowledged the grace of being alive, noting that many of his contemporaries were no longer alive to witness such a milestone.
He also used the occasion to urge Nigerians to remain hopeful and continue supporting the current administration’s efforts toward national development.
The thanksgiving service drew an array of dignitaries from across the country, reflecting Daniel’s wide influence in political, traditional, and religious circles.
Marking the milestone, the celebration underscored Daniel’s legacy as a businessman, politician, and public servant whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
