President Bola Tinubu on Saturday received former Minister of Defence, Theophilus Danjuma, at the State House in Abuja.
The Presidency confirmed the meeting in a brief statement but did not disclose details of the discussion.
Over the years, successive Nigerian presidents have consulted Danjuma on issues of national importance. His extensive military background and reputation as an elder statesman have positioned him as a key voice in matters relating to security and governance.
Danjuma served as Defence Minister during the first term of former President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2003.
The 87-year-old is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential military and political figures. He previously served as Chief of Army Staff from 1976 to 1979 under the military administration of Obasanjo.
The Taraba State-born retired general also played a significant role in Nigeria’s political history, including the July 1966 counter-coup that brought General Yakubu Gowon to power.
Beyond public service, Danjuma is a prominent businessman with investments in the oil and gas sector through his company, South Atlantic Petroleum. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts through the TY Danjuma Foundation.
In recent years, the elder statesman has been vocal on national security issues. In 2018, he generated nationwide debate when he urged Nigerians to defend themselves against armed attackers, alleging that security forces were not doing enough to protect vulnerable communities.
Although the agenda of Saturday’s meeting was not made public, political observers note that consultations with senior statesmen often signal discussions around critical national matters.
