Saraki at Birthday: SMPC Hails a Life of Service, Democratic Courage and National Unity By Raymond Enoch
The Saraki Movement for Positive Change (SMPC), a nationwide movement with structures across all 36 states of the federation, has joined Nigerians in celebrating former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, describing him as a statesman whose public life continues to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and national cohesion.
In a statement marking his birthday, the leadership of SMPC said the occasion offers “a historic moment to honour a leader whose political journey reflects uncommon dedication to democratic governance, people-centred leadership, and constitutional order.”
Dr. Saraki, a former two-term Governor of Kwara State from 2003 to 2011, was commended for laying what the movement described as “a solid foundation for inclusive development and institutional reform.” According to SMPC, his tenure as governor was defined by strategic investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, with several of his reforms later serving as benchmarks for subnational governance across Nigeria.
The movement noted that Saraki’s national influence reached a defining point during his tenure as President of the 8th Nigerian Senate (2015–2019), a period it described as one of intense political pressure and institutional testing. SMPC said Saraki emerged as a stabilising force who defended the independence of the legislature and reinforced the principle of separation of powers, a cornerstone of democratic governance.
Under his leadership, the 8th Senate was widely regarded as one of the most productive in Nigeria’s history, recording landmark legislative achievements in electoral reform, anti-corruption frameworks, ease of doing business, and social welfare. The Senate also expanded legislative transparency and citizen engagement, opening parliamentary processes to greater public scrutiny and participation.
Beyond lawmaking, SMPC highlighted Saraki’s “maturity and restraint in leadership,” noting that despite political adversity, he remained committed to dialogue, constitutionalism, and the national interest. His resilience, the statement said, inspired many Nigerians—particularly young people—to see politics as a platform for service rather than personal gain.
The movement added that Saraki’s contributions have extended beyond public office through policy advocacy, mentorship, and sustained engagement on issues of governance, unity, and development. “His voice continues to shape national discourse and promote democratic values and peaceful coexistence across party lines,” the statement read.
SMPC said its nationwide movement draws inspiration from these ideals, noting that it was established to sustain and amplify values of inclusive leadership, social justice, youth participation, and democratic accountability which Saraki represents. The organisation said his life of service continues to energise its members as they mobilise citizens toward constructive political engagement and positive nation-building.
As Dr. Saraki marks another year, the movement said Nigeria celebrates “not just his age, but the depth of his contributions, the strength of his convictions, and the enduring legacy he is building for present and future generations.”
The statement concluded with prayers for good health, renewed strength, and wisdom for the former Senate President, wishing him many more years of impactful service to national unity, peace, and sustainable development.
