…hails former leader’s sacrifices, enduring influence
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated former President and elder statesman, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on his 89th birthday, describing him as a towering figure whose influence continues to resonate in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President rejoiced with the former leader and acknowledged his decades of service and commitment to national development.
Tinubu noted that Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria’s political evolution and Africa’s progress remain significant, recalling his leadership roles at critical moments in the nation’s history.
The President highlighted Obasanjo’s tenure as Nigeria’s military Head of State between 1976 and 1979, during which he supervised the transition to civil rule and handed over power to a democratically elected government in 1979.
He also acknowledged the elder statesman’s later return to office as Nigeria’s civilian president in the Fourth Republic, serving two terms from 1999 to 2007.
According to Tinubu, Obasanjo’s life has been marked by courage, sacrifice and steadfast commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria.
The President recalled that the former leader played a key role in preserving Nigeria’s unity during the civil war and also endured imprisonment for speaking out against military dictatorship.
Tinubu further commended Obasanjo’s continued engagement in national and continental affairs, noting that the former president has consistently championed political and economic development across Africa.
He also praised the elder statesman’s intellectual contributions through books and public interventions, which he said demonstrate deep patriotism and dedication to nation-building.
“As Chief Obasanjo turns 89, the President acknowledges the zeal and wisdom he has brought into Nigeria’s development process through his books and regular interventions,” the statement said.
Tinubu prayed for continued good health, strength and wisdom for the former president as he marks the milestone and continues to contribute to national and global affairs.