The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has congratulated former Kaduna State Governor and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Muhammad Makarfi, on his 70th birthday.

Adebayo, in a congratulatory message marking Makarfi’s birthday, described the former governor as an experienced statesman whose contributions to public service and democratic governance remained valuable to Nigeria.

He said the milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on Makarfi’s decades of service, leadership and contributions to the development of Kaduna State and the country.

The SDP presidential candidate commended Makarfi’s long career in public service, particularly his tenure as governor of Kaduna State and subsequent leadership of the PDP, saying the positions placed him at important stages of Nigeria’s political and democratic development.

According to him, Makarfi’s experience in governance and national politics had earned him a place among the country’s elder statesmen whose knowledge and perspectives remained relevant to Nigeria’s search for democratic stability and good governance.

“Reaching the age of 70 is a remarkable milestone and an opportunity to reflect on a life dedicated to public service, leadership and the development of our nation,” Adebayo said.

He noted that Makarfi’s tenure as Kaduna governor came at an important period in the state’s history, while his leadership of the PDP brought him into the centre of national political engagement at a critical period for the country’s democracy.

Adebayo said Makarfi’s contribution to Nigeria should not be measured solely by the offices he occupied but also by the experience and institutional knowledge he acquired through decades of participation in public affairs.

“At 70, I celebrate not only Senator Makarfi’s longevity but also his contributions to democratic governance, political engagement and public service,” he said.

The SDP candidate stressed the importance of experienced statesmen continuing to contribute to national development, particularly at a time when Nigeria required constructive engagement across political and generational lines.

He said the country would benefit from the wisdom, guidance and counsel of leaders who had devoted significant portions of their lives to governance and democratic processes.

Adebayo, on behalf of his family, political associates, SDP supporters and Nigerians who value dedicated public service, wished Makarfi good health, wisdom, peace and continued strength.

He also prayed for many more years of meaningful service, happiness and fulfilment for the former Kaduna governor, expressing hope that his wealth of experience would continue to contribute to building a more democratic, prosperous, peaceful and united Nigeria.

“May the Almighty grant him many more years of meaningful service, happiness and fulfilment, and may his experience continue to contribute to the building of a more democratic, prosperous, peaceful and united Nigeria,” Adebayo said.