By Emmanuel Kwada
In a stirring open letter to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Tobi Bernard Thomas, Kaduna State Coordinator of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has lauded the President for his profound loyalty and reverence for the late President Muhammadu Buhari. The letter, brimming with admiration, celebrates Tinubu’s unwavering support during Buhari’s illness, funeral, and beyond, while extolling the transformative legacy of Buhari’s administration in infrastructure, tourism, anti-corruption, and regional cooperation.
Titled “A Letter of Gratitude and Hope,” the missive highlights President Tinubu’s exemplary leadership qualities—loyalty, respect, and compassion—as a model for all Nigerians. Thomas, a distinguished tourism practitioner, praises Tinubu’s decision to immortalize Buhari by renaming the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University, a fitting tribute to a leader whose eight-year tenure reshaped Nigeria’s landscape. Additionally, Tinubu’s declaration of a national holiday and seven days of mourning in Buhari’s honor is hailed as a testament to his deep respect for his predecessor’s legacy.
“President Tinubu’s actions reflect a rare and inspiring loyalty that not only honors Buhari’s memory but also sets a powerful example for future generations,” Thomas writes. “Your leadership is a beacon of hope for a united and progressive Nigeria.”
The growth of tourism under Buhari’s leadership has been a game-changer, stimulating local economies and putting Nigeria on the global map
The letter reflects on Buhari’s monumental contributions, particularly in infrastructure development. Landmark projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Rail Line, Abuja-Kaduna Rail, and Itakpe-Warri Standard Gauge Rail have revolutionized transportation, boosting connectivity and fueling growth in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Thomas notes that Lagos now boasts 5,000-6,000 internationally branded hotel rooms, with Abuja hosting around 2,000, as global brands like Marriott, Hilton, Radisson, and Accor expand their footprint.
As a tourism expert, Thomas underscores the ripple effect of Buhari’s policies, including the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act of 2022, which established NIHOTOUR as the regulatory body for the sector. This legislation has standardized training, certification, and ethics, creating jobs and showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. “The growth of tourism under Buhari’s leadership has been a game-changer, stimulating local economies and putting Nigeria on the global map,” Thomas affirms.
Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade also earns high praise, with initiatives like the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption and the recovery of over $300 million in looted funds from Sani Abacha’s Swiss accounts. His reforms, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) restructuring, are credited with enhancing transparency and efficiency in the oil and gas sector.
On the regional stage, Buhari’s collaboration with West African nations to combat the Boko Haram insurgency is recognized as a cornerstone of his legacy, fostering peace and stability. “His leadership transcended Nigeria, promoting unity and cooperation across the region,” Thomas writes.
His leadership transcended Nigeria, promoting unity and cooperation across the region
The letter concludes with a heartfelt prayer for President Tinubu, wishing him “a million times” the loyalty and respect he has shown Buhari to propel Nigeria forward. “May your leadership continue to be blessed with wisdom, courage, and compassion to navigate our nation’s complexities and lead us to a brighter future,” Thomas writes.
You are a shining example of a leader who prioritizes the greater good
This open letter not only celebrates Tinubu’s heartfelt gestures but also serves as a clarion call for unity, loyalty, and progress in Nigeria. As Thomas aptly puts it, “You are a shining example of a leader who prioritizes the greater good.” The nation watches with anticipation as President Tinubu builds on Buhari’s legacy to steer Nigeria toward a prosperous future.
Tobi Bernard Thomas, DFILMMD, FIMC, FCAI, FIPMA, MCILRM, CMC, PSLC (Kuru)
Kaduna State Coordinator, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN)
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