Based on the available records by your no 1 blog site, Tuzzuper, the following Nigerian presidents have publicly acknowledged and celebrated Bishop Kukah’s birthday on at least one occasion:

President Goodluck Jonathan (2013, 61st Birthday)

In 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan sent a congratulatory letter to Bishop Kukah on the occasion of his 61st birthday, praising his dedication to the service of God and the well‑being of Nigerians.
The Eagle Online

President Muhammadu Buhari (2022, 70th Birthday)

President Buhari issued a felicitation message celebrating Bishop Kukah on his 70th birthday in 2022, acknowledging his contributions as a priest, teacher, scholar, and writer to national discourse.

President Bola Tinubu (2022, 70th Birthday; 2025, 73rd Birthday)

In 2022, Bola Tinubu—then APC presidential candidate—sent birthday wishes and attended Kukah’s 70th birthday event along with other prominent figures.

Most recently, as sitting president in 2025, Tinubu felicitated Bishop Kukah on his 73rd birthday.
Summary Table
President Occasion(s)
Goodluck Jonathan Felicitated Bishop Kukah on his 61st birthday (2013)
Muhammadu Buhari Felicitated on his 70th birthday (2022)
Bola Tinubu Celebrated his 70th birthday as candidate (2022); 73rd birthday as president (2025

These instances highlight that Bishop Kukah’s influence and contributions have been recognized across multiple administrations—transcending party lines and political divides. From 2013 to 2025, we see consistent acknowledgement by Presidents Jonathan, Buhari, and Tinubu at key milestone birthdays.

they surely have celebrated him for pure reason. Below Tuzzuper present four key reasons why Nigerian presidents have consistently celebrated Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah on his birthdays:

1. His Role as a Moral and Religious Leader

Bishop Kukah is widely respected as a moral authority in Nigeria. As the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, he has been a consistent voice on issues of justice, equity, and national unity. His religious office and commitment to peace make him a symbolic figure who transcends political and ethnic divides. Celebrating him helps reinforce national values rooted in tolerance, integrity, and faith.

2. His Contributions to National Dialogue and Peacebuilding

Kukah has played a central role in peacebuilding efforts across Nigeria. He was a member of the Oputa Panel (the Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission) and has worked behind the scenes in mediation efforts in conflict-prone regions. Presidents value and acknowledge these efforts because they contribute to national stability, which is a shared interest beyond politics.

3. His Intellectual and Social Influence

Apart from being a bishop, Kukah is also an academic, writer, and public intellectual. He has written extensively on Nigeria’s politics, governance, and religious pluralism. His thoughtful critiques of government—though sometimes uncomfortable for those in power—are respected as part of a vibrant democratic society. Presidents celebrate him as a reminder of the need for constructive dissent and thoughtful discourse.

4. Broad Public Respect and National Recognition

Kukah commands widespread respect among Nigerians, regardless of religion or region. Celebrating him allows leaders to connect with citizens and demonstrate their appreciation for figures who inspire unity, compassion, and patriotism. Politically, it reflects well on a president to honor individuals who are seen as non-partisan and nationally impactful.

Nigerian presidents celebrate Bishop Kukah because he is:

A moral compass and religious leader with integrity

A nation-builder involved in peace and reconciliation

An intellectual voice for justice and good governance

A respected public figure admired across ethnic and religious lines