President Bola Tinubu has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose contributions to Nigeria’s development remain indelible.
He praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his decades-long service to Nigeria, highlighting his influence on national policies and governance.
In a tribute marking Obasanjo’s 88th birthday on Wednesday, Tinubu acknowledged the former president’s role in shaping the country’s political landscape, both as a military and civilian leader. He noted that Obasanjo’s frequent interventions in national affairs, sometimes controversial, have contributed to policy direction and held leaders accountable.
“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” Tinubu remarked, emphasizing Obasanjo’s enduring impact on the nation’s development.
Tinubu recalled Obasanjo’s pivotal role in 1970 when, as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, he received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, effectively bringing the Nigerian Civil War to an end.
The President also commended Obasanjo’s leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976, noting his commitment to democracy by overseeing Nigeria’s 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 still counting,” the President stated.
The president lauded Obasanjo’s statesmanship, emphasizing his dedication to national unity, peace, and progress. He also extended prayers for the former leader’s continued strength and wisdom.
“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.
