Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and political economist Pat Utomi have congratulated Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso on his 70th birthday, praising his decades of public service and commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and former Minister of Defence, marks his 70th birthday on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

In separate birthday messages, Obi and Utomi reflected on Kwankwaso’s political journey, describing him as an experienced public figure whose contributions and relationships with other political leaders remain significant to Nigeria’s political development.

Peter Obi Celebrates Kwankwaso As Brother And Partner In Service

Obi described Kwankwaso as a dear elder brother and partner in service to Nigeria, noting that their relationship had been strengthened by shared conversations and a common commitment to the country’s progress.

In his birthday message, the former Anambra State governor acknowledged Kwankwaso’s experience in the legislature, the Federal Executive Council, the Kano State Government House and national politics.

According to Obi, turning 70 represents an opportunity to reflect on a lifetime of public service, the wisdom acquired through experience and the opportunities that lie ahead.

He also expressed appreciation for their partnership and shared aspiration for a Nigeria where every citizen has access to opportunities and can live with dignity, security and hope.

Obi said he hoped for a country where no child would be deprived of opportunity and no family would be abandoned to poverty.

He prayed for God's blessings, renewed strength, good health and wisdom for the former Kano governor, expressing hope that the years ahead would bring peace, fulfilment and more productive service to the nation.

"Warmest congratulations on your 70th birthday, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso," Obi stated, reaffirming his respect for the celebrant.

Pat Utomi Praises Kwankwaso's Position On National Unity

Similarly, Utomi congratulated Kwankwaso, describing him as a statesman whose boldness in putting Nigerian unity first had earned him respect.

The political economist said he wanted to be among the first to congratulate the former Kano governor on his milestone birthday.

Reflecting on his personal connection to Kano's political history, Utomi recalled that he began primary school in Kano in 1960, the year Nigeria gained independence, and was an enthusiastic supporter of the late nationalist politician Aminu Kano and the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU).

Utomi also disclosed that the partnership between Kwankwaso and Obi received its initial push at his home in Lagos four years ago before, according to him, receiving its final anointing in his presence on January 1 this year at the Oriental Hotel.

He prayed for God's blessings on Kwankwaso's new age and expressed hope that the senator would make progress in his mission.

Kwankwaso's 70th Birthday And Nigeria's Political Future

The birthday tributes come against the backdrop of continuing political discussions about alliances, national unity and the search for effective leadership ahead of Nigeria's next general election in 2027.

Obi and Kwankwaso have both remained influential figures in national politics, with their political relationship attracting attention from observers interested in possible cooperation among opposition leaders.

Utomi's account of the early conversations surrounding their partnership adds another dimension to the political relationship, particularly as discussions about Nigeria's future leadership continue.

While the birthday messages primarily celebrate Kwankwaso's personal milestone and public service, they also underscore the importance both Obi and Utomi attach to national unity, political cooperation and the pursuit of a better Nigeria.

As Kwankwaso turns 70, the tributes from the two prominent public figures highlight his long involvement in Nigerian politics and the expectations that continue to surround the country's political leadership.