Tinubu hails veteran journalist Tunji Bello at 65

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.

“As his sterling record clearly illustrates, first as editor of reputable national dailies, later as a Lagos State cabinet member, and most recently as the CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Tunji is a shining example of what is possible when competence meets creativity and character,” the President said.

Tinubu recalled appointing Bello to his cabinet as Governor of Lagos State in 2003 to tackle waste management challenges confronting the state.

“In 2003, when we were confronted with the seemingly intractable challenge of waste management in Lagos State, I, as Governor, pulled him out of his editorial turf to join the Lagos cabinet to help drive the reforms we had outlined,” he said.

The President credited Bello with transforming the sector and noted that successive administrations retained him in key positions because of his performance.

“True to his reputation, Tunji performed a miracle in 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 the Secretary to the State Government to help enrich the broader governance framework with great ideas,” Tinubu added.

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.

“When I assumed office as President and considered how to recalibrate consumer advocacy in line with our Renewed Hope Agenda, I could not think of a more appropriate and reliable person than Tunji,” Tinubu said.

He added, “Many Nigerians will attest that he has made a great impact at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission within two years of assuming leadership of this 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.

“I cannot thank Tunji enough for all he has done for our country and the progressive front,” the President said. “As he turns 65, I pray that the Almighty Allah grant him many more years in good health with renewed strength to continue to serve our people and country.”