Powerful Tribute As VP, SGF, Others Celebrate Hadiza Bala At 50 -

Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top government officials on Tuesday paid glowing tributes to the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala, as she marked her 50th birthday.

The dignitaries hailed Bala’s exceptional contributions to national development, describing her as a courageous, principled and results-driven public servant whose leadership has strengthened governance delivery across different sectors.

Speaking at the Hadiza Bala @ 50 Governance Colloquium held in Abuja, Vice President Shettima described the celebrant as a quintessential public servant whose career has been defined by integrity, dedication and excellence.

He noted that her impactful service as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State, co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls movement, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and currently as Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, has inspired countless Nigerians, particularly women, to pursue purposeful leadership.

“She represents the very best of public service, driven by passion, courage and an unwavering commitment to national progress,” the Vice President said.

In his goodwill message, the SGF, Senator George Akume, commended Bala’s role as Head of the Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, noting that her intellectual rigour, strategic foresight and passion for results have strengthened policy implementation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

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He added that her work has helped translate government policies into measurable outcomes, thereby reinforcing effective governance.

Akume wished her good health, renewed strength and many more years of impactful service to the nation.

Similarly, the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, described the golden jubilee celebration as more than a milestone in age, but a tribute to a life defined by purpose, courage and disciplined public service.

“Her journey reflects a public life shaped by conviction rather than convenience, and by principle rather than applause,” he said.

The event attracted several high-profile dignitaries, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari; former SGF, Boss Mustapha, CFR; Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev; Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh;

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; members of the National Assembly and other distinguished guests.

The colloquium celebrated Hadiza Bala’s legacy of service, leadership and commitment to nation-building as she enters a new chapter of public life.