Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State and Transport Minister during his administration, on his 60th birthday, describing him as a "golden fish" who was a vital asset to his government.

In a statement released on Wednesday through his former media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari praised Amaechi's contributions to Nigeria's infrastructure development, particularly in revitalizing the country's railway system.

"Amaechi shared with me the aspiration of strengthening infrastructure, bridging the nation's long-delayed gaps through the railways, a vital component— leading to its revival from a comatose state; the completion of abandoned projects, turning them into major transit hubs; and initiating major ones across the country," Buhari stated.

The former president highlighted how the railway system, which he described as "the heartbeat of several towns and cities, killed and buried for decades," experienced a renaissance under Amaechi's leadership. He noted that the revitalized rail network now serves millions of Nigerians by increasing capacity for passenger and freight services, introducing new services and rolling stock, and improving safety.

Political Significance Amid Coalition Moves

Buhari's praise comes at a politically significant moment as Amaechi is reportedly forming an alliance with an opposition coalition led by Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai. This coalition is apparently aimed at unseating the APC-led government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The timing of Buhari's commendation has raised eyebrows in political circles, given Amaechi's reported move to align with opposition figures against the ruling party that both Buhari and Amaechi previously belonged to.

Amaechi served as Minister of Transportation throughout Buhari's eight-year presidency from 2015 to 2023, overseeing significant railway projects including the Lagos-Ibadan railway, the Abuja-Kaduna railway, and other major transportation initiatives.

"Under him, the nation witnessed a new era of railway infrastructure. I wish him and his family many happy years ahead," Buhari concluded in his birthday message.