Tinubu Celebrates FCCPC Boss Tunji Bello at 65, Praises Decades of Public Service

(Tunji Bello. Photo Credit: Nation News)

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Tunji Bello, on his 65th birthday.

In a statement he personally issued on Tuesday to mark Bello’s birthday on July 1, Tinubu described the veteran journalist as a dependable ally, accomplished public servant and steadfast advocate of progressive ideals.

The Nigerian leader said he and the former Lagos State Commissioner had shared more than three decades of political association and commitment to the progressive movement.

The President commended Bello’s role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle during the military era, describing him as a fearless journalist who stood firmly against dictatorship and later distinguished himself in public service.

According to Tinubu, Bello’s career trajectory, from journalism to public administration, demonstrates what can be achieved through competence, creativity and integrity.

He noted that Bello’s sterling record, first as editor of reputable national dailies, later as a Lagos State cabinet member, and most recently as CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, makes him a shining example of what is possible when competence meets creativity and character.

Tinubu recalled appointing Bello to his cabinet as Governor of Lagos State in 2003 to tackle waste management challenges confronting the state, explaining that he had pulled Bello out of his editorial turf at the time to join the Lagos cabinet and help drive the reforms that had been outlined.

The President credited Bello with transforming the sector and noted that successive administrations retained him in key positions because of his performance, stating that Bello performed remarkably within a record time, so much so that successive governors found him indispensable and retained him either as Environment Commissioner to consolidate the gains in waste management in Africa’s most populous city, or as Secretary to the State Government to help enrich the broader governance framework with valuable ideas.

He also praised Bello’s versatility and experience in political science, law, administration and strategic communication, describing him as one of the most accomplished public servants of his generation in Lagos State.

The President further lauded Bello’s leadership of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, saying his appointment aligned with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He explained that when he assumed office as President and considered how to recalibrate consumer advocacy in line with the agenda, he could not think of a more appropriate and reliable person than Bello, adding that many Nigerians would attest that he has made a great impact at the Commission within two years of assuming leadership of the strategic public institution.

Tinubu expressed gratitude for Bello’s contributions to national development and the progressive movement, praying for more years of good health and continued service to the country.

He said he could not thank Bello enough for all he has done for the country and the progressive front, praying that as he turns 65, the Almighty would grant him many more years in good health with renewed strength to continue serving the people and the nation.