Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, according to President Bola Tinubu, is an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose contributions to Nigeria’s progress will be remembered.
Tinubu also stated that Obasanjo’s constant interventions in national matters, which were often contentious, helped shape public policy and keep officials accountable.
Tinubu made the remarks while paying tribute to Obasanjo on Wednesday, his 88th birthday, hailing the former president’s decades-long service to the nation and appreciating his contribution in defining Nigeria’s political environment as a military and civilian leader.
“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” Tinubu said.
The president praised Obasanjo’s role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, including receiving the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970.
He also praised Obasanjo’s leadership after General Murtala Muhammed’s assassination in 1976 and overseeing the transition to civilian rule in 1979.
“Twenty years later, in 1999, he emerged as a civilian president, freed from prison a year earlier, to herald the rebirth of another democratic dispensation, which recently clocked 25 years and is still counting,” the president stated.
Beyond his time in office, Tinubu recognized the former president’s enduring influence in national and global affairs, describing him as an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter,” whose efforts in conflict resolution and governance advocacy have earned him respect across Africa and beyond.
“Sometimes controversial, former President Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs have helped shape public policies and acted as a check on leadership.
” he added.
The president hailed Obasanjo’s statesmanship and dedication to national unity, peace, and growth, wishing for sustained strength and wisdom for the former leader.
“At 88, the former president is still gaining strength. I pray that God Almighty will grant him more years so the nation and Africa can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge,” Tinubu said.
