Former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniel, has acknowledged President Bola Tinubu as a major influence on his time in office, describing him as a source of inspiration and practical governance ideas.
Daniel made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja during the presentation of four books to celebrate his 70th birthday, an event attended by prominent figures including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Yar’Adua Centre, Daniel praised Tinubu’s leadership style and intellect, noting that many of his own policies were influenced by the President.
“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.”
President Tinubu, who was represented at the event by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, returned the praise, describing Daniel as a longtime associate and commending his contributions to national development.
“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.
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He also highlighted Daniel’s achievements in business and governance, referencing his role in founding Kresta Laurel and his efforts in infrastructure and education during his tenure as governor.
“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 said.
“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.”
Beyond the tributes, Daniel addressed national concerns such as misinformation, corruption, and declining values in public service.
“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.
“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 also advocated for ethical leadership rooted in integrity and accountability, referencing the “Omoluabi ethos,” and supported ongoing discussions on state policing, while calling for safeguards to prevent misuse.
The event featured 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—highlighting his journey and impact in public service.