Tinubu Is A ‘Textbook In Governance’ That Many Of Us Read From – Ex-Ogun Gov, Daniel

Former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel, has credited President Bola Tinubu with playing a defining role in shaping his administration while in office.

Daniel described the Nigerian leader as a source of inspiration and practical governance ideas, noting that many of Tinubu’s initiatives influenced his policies as governor.

Daniel made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja during the public presentation of four books to mark his 70th birthday.

Papers News reports that the ceremony, held at the Yar’Adua Centre, attracted prominent dignitaries, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.

The event served as both a celebration of Daniel’s life at 70 and a reflection on his years in public service.

Speaking at the well-attended gathering, Daniel paid glowing tribute to Tinubu, highlighting his pragmatic leadership style and intellectual depth.

“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains one of the most pragmatic human beings that I have ever come across. Nigeria is yet to see the best of him. Mr President is a textbook in governance and creative intelligence that many of us read from,” he said.

“I owe the modest success of our administration as the Governor of Ogun State to his insight and creative geniuses; there are quite a lot of his governance initiatives that we copied from while I was Governor.”

Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, described Daniel as a “longtime ally and friend.”

“I salute Otunba Daniel for his professional exploits, governance strides and political achievements. He accomplished the feats by dint of hard work, tenacity, wisdom and courage,” Tinubu said.

The President also commended Daniel’s track record in business, particularly his role in founding Kresta Laurel.

“The enviable heights the company has attained at present should not be surprising given Otunba’s business acumen, hunger for success and determination. Kresta Laurel has handled major engineering projects and has become a leader in elevator installation and maintenance in Nigeria,” he added.

Tinubu further noted that Daniel brought his vision into governance after assuming office in 2003, focusing on industrialisation, infrastructure, education and public-private partnerships.

“Part of his legacy as governor included the initiation of the first agro-allied cargo airport in the state and the establishment of Tai Solarin University of Education,” he said.

Beyond personal reflections, Daniel used the occasion to address broader national challenges, including misinformation and corruption.

“One of the critical issues that has arrested and held down Nigerian society is the lack of credible information. Political decisions are frequently taken from warped viewpoints,” he said.

On corruption, he called for structural reforms, particularly targeting illicit financial flows.

“A significant portion of corrupt proceeds passes through our banking system. Government could consider offering a well-structured moratorium or amnesty on the repatriation of such illicit funds,” he stated.

Daniel also advocated a return to ethical leadership anchored on the “Omoluabi ethos,” stressing integrity, accountability and moral uprightness as essential to national development.

Addressing security concerns, he backed ongoing discussions on state policing, urging safeguards against abuse and proposing the establishment of State Police Councils to ensure accountability.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of four books: “Daniel in the Lions’ Den,” “My March through the Courts,” “Path to Justice,” and “Otunba Gbenga Daniel in the Eyes of Time.”

The publications chronicle Daniel’s life, career, and enduring impact on Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.