President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 88th birthday, describing him as an extraordinary leader and statesman who has played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s history and development.
In a tribute to Obasanjo, Tinubu acknowledged that providence has placed the retired general at critical junctures in Nigeria’s history, from his time in the Nigerian Army to his leadership as both a military head of state and a civilian president.
“Today, as former President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo turns 88, I pay a special tribute to an extraordinary leader and statesman who has made enormous contributions to Nigeria’s development and whose life for the past six decades is woven deeply into the fabric of Nigeria’s history,” Tinubu stated.
The president recounted key moments in Obasanjo’s legacy, including his role in accepting the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander Col. Philip Effiong, marking the end of Nigeria’s 30-month civil war. He also highlighted Obasanjo’s historic transition of power to a civilian government in 1979 and his later return as Nigeria’s democratically elected president in 1999.
“During the two eras, General Obasanjo implemented critical policies and reforms and made important decisions that profoundly impacted the lives of many Nigerians. As the head of state, he consistently demonstrated a selfless commitment to national unity, peace, and progress,” Tinubu noted.
The president also acknowledged Obasanjo’s global influence, citing his work in conflict resolution, governance advocacy, and Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).
“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,” Tinubu said.
While recognizing Obasanjo’s sometimes controversial political interventions, Tinubu emphasized that his frequent involvement in national affairs has helped shape policies and provided checks on leadership.
“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 extended his heartfelt birthday wishes, commending Obasanjo’s leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to this great patriot. Happy 88th Birthday, President Obasanjo!”
