Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, says President Muhammadu Buhari loves the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, like a son, Igbere TV reports.
Mr El-Rufai was quoted in a statement on Thursday by the transport ministry on Amaechi’s 55th birthday.
The statement, as obtained by Igbere TV said a former Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dakuku Peterside, anchored a gathering on Zoom on Wednesday to mark the occasion.
El-Rufai praised Amaechi for his great personality which made the president love him in spite of oppositions.
“President Buhari loves Amaechi like a son, he trusts him absolutely which is why in spite of all opposition, many attempts to put Amaechi in a bad light, he twice selected him to lead his campaign and also as the Minister of Transportation,” he said in the statement.
“Amaechi’s key leadership quality is his sense of inclusion, he likes to bring everyone on board, he loves teamwork, he empowers people to put in their best, he doesn’t pretend to know it all or try to do everything.
“He is one of the few politicians from the Niger Delta that is Pan Nigeria. I think in the history of Nigeria there hasn’t been any minister of transportation that has been able to achieve the landmark Amaechi has achieved in very difficult circumstances.
“I am very proud of you, am very proud to be associated with you, I am a beneficiary of your friendship, your love, and your generosity.
“You have helped me a lot in my campaign, you have raised money for me, you have given me ideas on how to be a better politician and I have learned a lot from you.”
El-Rufai added that he was confident Amaechi would be among those looked upon to take Nigeria higher.
The Zoom birthday conference had distinguished personalities, including musicians and comedians, to light up the day.