By Kolawole Ojebisi
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday felicitated elderstatesman, former miltary Head of State as well as erstwhile civilian president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, as he turns 88.
Tinubu described the former president as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose contributions to Nigeria’s development remain indelible.
He also said Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs, sometimes controversial, have helped shape public policies and put leaders in check.
This is contained in a tribute to mark the Owu-born retired general’s 88th birthday.
Tinubu hailed the former president’s decades-long service to the nation, acknowledging his role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape both as a military and civilian leader.
“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” Tinubu said.
He recounted Obasanjo’s pivotal role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, noting that as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, he received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970.
The President also highlighted Obasanjo’s leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976, commending his commitment to democracy by overseeing a 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.
Beyond his time in office, Tinubu acknowledged 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 lauded Obasanjo’s statesmanship and dedication to national unity, peace, and progress, praying for continued 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.
