he Femi Gbajabiamila I know, by Femi Fani-Kayode

Femi Fani-Kayode has written a heartfelt birthday tribute to his long-time friend, Femi Gbajabiamila, who serves as the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Fani-Kayode reminisced about their shared childhood in Lagos and London during the 1970s and 1980s, emphasizing the depth of their bond, which has spanned over 50 years. He described Gbajabiamila as unfailingly loyal and sincere to his childhood friends throughout their lives.

The piece highlights Gbajabiamila's political journey, recalling his early criticisms of Chief Bola Ige and his return to Nigeria in 2004. Fani-Kayode also mentioned Gbajabiamila's unwavering commitment to President Tinubu, tracing it from 1993 through the NADECO era, Tinubu's time as Lagos State governor, and up to his presidential election.

Fani-Kayode also touched upon Gbajabiamila's personal life, noting his love for his mother and wife. He described Gbajabiamila as someone with a "very soft, kind & caring heart" beneath a sometimes stern exterior.

The tribute also recalled significant speeches, including one Gbajabiamila gave at Fani-Kayode's 47th birthday dinner in 2007, where he praised Fani-Kayode while also criticizing the government. Fani-Kayode mirrored this by recalling a speech he gave at Gbajabiamila's birthday dinner in 2011, where he prophetically stated that Gbajabiamila's time would come to be Speaker of the House of Representatives, a prediction that came true.