Tinubu Hails House Leader Ihonvbere at 70, Praises Contributions to Democracy and Nation Building

By Reporter

Abuja, June 25, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the Leader of the House of Representatives, Professor Julius Omozuanvbo Kayode Ihonvbere, on the occasion of his 70th birthday, describing him as a distinguished statesman, scholar, patriot, and one of Nigeria’s finest public servants.

In a statement issued by the State House on Thursday, President Tinubu joined members of the Ihonvbere family, lawmakers, constituents from Owan East/Owan West Federal Constituency of Edo State, and millions of Nigerians in celebrating the veteran politician and academic.

The President said Professor Ihonvbere’s life at 70 reflects a remarkable journey of service, leadership, and dedication to national development.

According to Tinubu, Ihonvbere’s distinguished career spans academia, international development, and politics, where he has consistently demonstrated excellence and integrity.

“Professor Ihonvbere’s life story at 70 is, in many respects, a story of service. From the lecture halls as a renowned Political Scientist, he was elected to the House of Representatives, where his experience and integrity propelled him to the House leadership,” the President stated.

Tinubu highlighted the lawmaker’s contributions during his time at the Ford Foundation, where he served as a Program Officer in the Peace and Social Justice Programme and managed the Pluralism and Governance portfolio until 2002.

He noted that while at the foundation, Ihonvbere played a key role in supporting Nigeria’s democratic transition by helping attract foreign assistance to pro-democracy non-governmental organisations, including the Truth Commission established during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The President also recalled that Professor Ihonvbere voluntarily left the Ford Foundation to return to Nigeria and serve in Obasanjo’s government, bringing his international experience and expertise to national governance.

Commending the House Leader’s stewardship in the National Assembly, Tinubu said Ihonvbere has provided stability, direction, and effective leadership in the House of Representatives.

“As Leader of the House, you have helped stabilise the 10th Assembly, foster bipartisan cooperation, and ensure the Renewed Hope legislative agenda moves with focus and patriotism,” the President said.

The President further praised Ihonvbere’s longstanding advocacy for educational reform and his commitment to advancing tertiary education in Nigeria, describing him as an inspiration to younger generations of Nigerians.

He also lauded the federal lawmaker’s commitment to grassroots representation, noting that the people of Owan East/Owan West Federal Constituency regard him as a leader who remains connected to his roots and serves with humility.

Tinubu additionally acknowledged Ihonvbere’s loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his counsel and steadfastness have strengthened the party’s efforts to build a more prosperous nation.

Reflecting on the House Leader’s legacy, the President said Ihonvbere has brought “dignity, intellect, civility and principle” to public life and has demonstrated that excellence in academia can be successfully translated into effective public service.

“As you celebrate this 70th birthday, may God Almighty grant you renewed strength, good health, and many more years of impactful service to our nation and people,” Tinubu said.

Professor Julius Ihonvbere, a renowned political scientist and legislator, currently represents Owan East/Owan West Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives and serves as Leader of the House.

He turns 70 on June 25, 2026.