Date: 2016-11-25

The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Friday congratulated a former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on his attaining the age of 70 years.

Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu in Abuja, described the former Vice-President as a detribalized Nigerian and bridge builder whose influence, selflessness and astuteness has continue to positively impact humanity both within and outside the shores of this country.

While wishing the celebrant many more years of fruitful service to God and humanity, he urged the political class to borrow a leaf from his many acts of generosity and passion for education.

"Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is one man that has continued to inspire his peers and upcoming generation alike in all aspects of life. He is a man of great courage and vision that has helped to shape the development and democratic advancement of this country in no small measure.

"He is a true gift to humanity and we are blessed to have a personality like him as one of the major stakeholders in the Nigeria. I can only but wish the Turaki Adamawa excellent health, long life and continued service to humanity on this occasion of joining the Septuagenarian club," he said.