Tinubu celebrates Bishop Matthew Kukah at 73, hails role in democracy, peacebuilding

President Bola Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, on the occasion of his 73rd birthday, marked on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined the Catholic faithful and the wider Christian community in celebrating Bishop Kukah, describing him as a highly revered cleric whose compassion for the poor and underprivileged continues to shape people-centred development policies in Nigeria and beyond.

President Tinubu commended Bishop Kukah’s dedication to faith, scholarship, and nation-building, noting his unique ability to combine spiritual leadership with intellectual depth and practical insights on how democracy can foster development and good governance across the world.

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“Bishop Kukah’s role in the struggle for the return of democracy in Nigeria and his support for peace and harmony are remarkable,” the President said.

Highlighting the cleric’s contributions to national development, President Tinubu recalled that Bishop Kukah served as a member of Nigeria’s Truth Commission, Secretary of the Political Reform Conference, and a member of the Electoral Reform Committee.

He also worked tirelessly to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence as Chairman of Nigeria’s Inter-Religious Dialogue.

As the respected bishop marks his 73rd year, the President expressed hope that his tireless advocacy for justice, democracy, and human development will remain a lasting legacy and “an irreplaceable treasure” for Nigeria and the global community.

President Tinubu offered prayers for Bishop Kukah’s continued good health, long life, and divine wisdom as he carries on with his mission of service to humanity.