The Federal Capital was abuzz today as prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart and former senator, Gbenga Bareehu Ashafa, celebrated his 70th birthday. The milestone was marked by heartfelt messages from political heavyweights, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who lauded his remarkable journey in public service.
A Grand Birthday Tribute
President Bola Tinubu, through his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, conveyed warm greetings and highlighted Ashafa’s enduring contributions to national development. The statement acknowledged Ashafa’s early service as Executive Secretary of Lagos State Land Use & Allocation Committee and his later role as Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Lands Bureau—positions that earned him public praise for administrative innovation
Celebrating his record in the Senate from 2011 to 2019, Tinubu noted:
“His wealth of experience, exemplary public service, and leadership qualities—demonstrated over the years as a seasoned civil servant, politician, and public officer—make him an invaluable asset to our country”.
First Lady’s Commendation
In a personal message, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praised Ashafa’s dedication to community development and humanitarian causes. She expressed gratitude for their long-standing working relationship dating back to their time in the Lagos State government, where Ashafa served in key land administration roles under Governor Tinubu .
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
Ashafa’s public service résumé is diverse and impactful:
- Land governance: As director of planning and later head of land use offices in Lagos, he introduced policies like electronic C of O issuance and streamlined bureaucratic procedures—boosting land sector efficiency .
- Legislative achievements: Elected Senator for Lagos East (2011–2019), he chaired Land Transport Committees, driving reforms in railway regulation and infrastructure development—earning the moniker “The Rail Man” .
- Philanthropic leadership: After his Senate tenure, he served as MD/CEO of the Federal Housing Authority (2020–2024), spearheading affordable housing and community-oriented projects. He also champions youth empowerment through the GATE Foundation, supporting scholarships and small-business training .
Reflections from Family and Community
His son, Basheer Tosin Ashafa, described the celebration in THISDAY as a moment to honor his father’s unwavering dedication to service. He noted:
“For a man who has spent more than half of his eventful life in the service of people, state, and country… it is an honour and a privilege to reflect on his contributions”.
Community leaders and former political colleagues echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Ashafa’s bridge-building approach across ethnic and religious divides .
Looking Ahead
As Senator Ashafa embarks on his eighth decade, both party and government acknowledge that his legacy continues to inform national progress. The First Lady concluded her message with a prayer that the celebrant be granted “long life, good health, peace, and continued service to humanity” .
Today’s celebration of a statesman, civil servant, and community advocate stands as a testament to the enduring values of dedication and public service. At 70, Gbenga Bareehu Ashafa remains a beacon of leadership, unity, and national development.
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