By Hon. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga
I am pleased to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to my esteemed leader and colleague, Seyi Tinubu, as he celebrates his fortieth birthday. It is a significant occasion to recognise individuals who have a transformative impact on our perspectives—those capable of reshaping our understanding of effective leadership. Seyi is undoubtedly one such individual: thoughtful, unassuming, influential, gentle, and resolute in purpose. He epitomises a leader who not only uplifts others without seeking recognition but also provides steady guidance and transforms lives with quiet determination.
These reflections come from someone who has had the privilege of working closely with Seyi. Throughout the intense planning sessions of the 2023 presidential campaign, I witnessed firsthand his profound character and approach to leadership.
I would like to highlight the remarkable intellect that Seyi Tinubu possesses. His brilliance is evident in the manner he conducts himself—not through grandstanding, but through insightful and strategic thinking. He is a quiet genius who engages deeply with challenges, employs meticulous planning, and identifies solutions that others might overlook. During our numerous discussions leading up to President Tinubu’s historic electoral triumph, I observed a mind capable of envisioning ambitious goals while remaining anchored in reality. Where others may see obstacles, Seyi perceives opportunities for progress.
A standout quality of Seyi is his unwavering dedication to nurturing young Nigerian leaders. In a political landscape often marked by competition and rivalry, Seyi’s perspective offers a refreshing alternative. He recognizes the immense potential within young Nigerians and views them as valuable contributors to the nation’s future. Rather than seeing them as mere campaign instruments, he understands that they represent the foundation of our society—individuals who require mentorship, support, and opportunities to grow into competent leaders. This commitment is not simply talk; it informs all of his initiatives and decisions.
The City Boy Movement, which I have the honour of leading as Director-General, serves as a tangible expression of Seyi’s dedication to youth development. Founded during the vibrant phase of the 2023 presidential campaign, our organisation is designed to be a sustainable platform for youth mobilisation and advocacy. With Seyi Tinubu as our Grand Patron, we are working diligently to channel the energy, creativity, and aspirations of Nigerian youth in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of Renewed Hope for our nation.
Our mission encompasses far more than electoral success. We strive to ensure that Nigerians have a comprehensive understanding of the President’s policies and programs. Our commitment lies in amplifying young voices, ensuring they are not only heard but are also influential in shaping government policies. We aim to provide the next generation of leaders with the training, exposure, and opportunities necessary to achieve meaningful influence and authority.
I take pride in acknowledging that I, too, have benefited from Seyi Tinubu’s guidance. Recognising those who contribute to our development is vital. Seyi has opened doors for me that could have easily remained closed, sharing his wisdom, connections, and belief in my potential. He embodies the principle that helping others succeed enriches our collective future. His approach fosters a community where capable leaders can bloom, which ultimately strengthens our society.
What distinguishes Seyi is his remarkable humility. In a political environment often characterised by inflated egos, he remains refreshingly grounded. During our strategic meetings throughout the campaign, I witnessed an admirable quality: he could have easily demanded agreement based on his position. Instead, he chose to engage constructively with opinions that challenged his own.
Seyi exemplifies the art of effective listening—a crucial skill in today’s discourse. His ability to listen deeply signifies a respect for others’ perspectives. In our planning sessions, I observed him weave together diverse viewpoints, identify overlooked patterns, and develop strategies that respected every contribution while ensuring we remained focused on our shared objectives. This constructive approach is a hallmark of exemplary leadership, and Seyi Tinubu is a prime example of the positive impact such leadership can have on Nigeria’s future.
