President Bola Tinubu on Friday joined prominent Nigerians in Lagos to celebrate the 80th birthday of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart, Olabode George, praising his long years of service and commitment to the nation.

Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at a reception held at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, the president described Mr George as an elder brother and a proud Lagosian whose dedication to Nigeria remains unquestionable.

Mr George used the occasion to unveil two books, including a memoir reflecting on his life and public career.

Tinubu noted that despite their long-running political rivalry dating back to 1999, he had always held deep regard for the retired Naval Commodore. He said their disagreements never overshadowed mutual respect or the shared Lagos identity that shaped both men.

“He devoted decades to Nigeria—first in uniform, later in public service,” the president said, adding that Mr George’s commitment to the country and Lagos State made the celebration a significant moment.

Tinubu also recalled a past incident in which Mr George had vowed to leave the country if he became president. He said he advised him then to remain in Nigeria, assuring him of his intentions to promote national stability and unity. He acknowledged that Mr George had since continued to offer constructive advice on national issues.

The president encouraged Nigerians to support the newly launched memoir, which documents Mr George’s upbringing, military journey, governorship role in Ondo State, leadership within the PDP, and tenure as chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

Dignitaries in attendance included governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, former governors Murtala Nyako, Babangida Aliyu, Gbenga Daniel, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, as well as senior PDP officials and retired military officers.

Chairman of the occasion, retired General Ike Nwachukwu—represented by former Ondo State attorney-general Dele Ogedengbe—praised Mr George’s resilience, recalling his perseverance through prosecution, imprisonment, and eventual exoneration by the Supreme Court. He urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the celebrant’s ability to remain focused despite setbacks.

Mr George marked the milestone with the launch of two books: Unfiltered: A Chronicle of Selected Speeches and Bode George: From the Cradle, To the Seas, To the Podium, an autobiography detailing his decades-long journey as a military officer and political figure.