On his 88th birthday, President Bola Tinubu praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to nation-building and called him “controversial.”
In an announcement he signed on Wednesday, he described the former statesman as an “extraordinary leader ” whose contributions to Nigeria’s development will never be forgotten.
Tinubu claims that despite occasionally being contentious, Obasanjo’s frequent involvement in national affairs has influenced public policy and held leaders accountable. “Sometimes controversial, former President Obasanjo’s frequent involvement in national affairs has served as a check and balance on leadership and influenced public policies.
“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 prayed. Tinubu also lauded Obasanjo’s statesmanship and commitment to national unity, peace, and progress, praying for continued strength and wisdom for the former leader.
According to Tinubu, the former President wields enduring influence in national and global affairs. He further described Obasanjo 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.
The President recalled Obasanjo’s crucial contribution to bringing an end to the Nigerian Civil War, stating that in 1970, while serving as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, he was given the instrument of surrender by Col. Philip Effiong, the commander of the Biafran Army.
Tinubu additionally highlighted Obasanjo’s leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976, commending his commitment to democracy by overseeing a transition civilian rule in 1979.
General Obasanjo implemented critical policies and reforms and made significant decisions that profoundly impacted the lives of many Nigerians. He continuously showed a selfless dedication to national harmony, peace, and advancement in his capacity as head of state.
“Out of office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to wield considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well-regarded abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter. His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship,” he expressed.
