President Bola Tinubu has described former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, as a remarkable Nigerian who always cares about the unity of Nigeria and its development.
President Tinubu said this on Saturday at the public launch of a book, “My Life in Public View”, to mark Mr Osoba’s 85th birthday at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, highlighted the prominent role played by Mr. Osoba as a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in ensuring the country returned to democratic rule.
Mr. Tinubu recalled the celebrant’s efforts in co-forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the foremost journalist is always keen on discussing issues with positive impact for Nigeria and Nigerians.
While noting that Mr. Osoba’s life would serve as a source of inspiration to the youth, the President called on other Nigerians with a wealth of experiences to write them down for posterity.
He acknowledged the country's current economic situation but stressed that his administration was working to address food shortages, while calling on Nigerians to grow what they eat.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, commended the author for preparing the book for the benefit of the next generation, adding that Mr Osoba is a great nationalist whose contribution to national development is unparalleled.
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In his address, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, while recalling Mr Osoba's feat in journalism, said that as a young reporter covering the civil war, he discovered the corpses of the late Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa, and Finance Minister, Festus Okotie-Eboh.
Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun
He said that during his tenure as Governor of Gateway State, Mr. Osoba exemplified unwavering dedication, integrity and deep commitment to public service, adding that he contributed to the development, stability and progress of Nigeria and Ogun State.
“During his leadership, Chief Olusegun Osoba met challenges with foresight and determination, laying the foundation for the socio-economic growth we enjoy today. His visionary policies in education, healthcare, rural electrification, infrastructure and agriculture have left an indelible mark on the landscape of our state.
“Chief Osoba’s exceptional drive and penchant for rural development is unprecedented in the history of our state as he changed the narrative of rural-urban migration during his tenure as governor by bringing development to these communities,” Abiodun added.
The occasion, the governor noted, represented the ideals that the celebrant embodies, which include good governance that guarantees freedom, equity, inclusiveness, fairness and justice, making life more abundant and prosperous for the people of Ogun State.
Secretary to the Federal Government, George Akume, praised Osoba as a cerebral and highly intelligent man, noting that his views on national and political issues are always compelling. He thanked him for putting his experience in public service on paper.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, noted that Mr. Osoba was a prolific writer and passionate about the development of the country.
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He urged future journalists not to disparage the nation but to write and comment on issues that would be beneficial to the people.
In his goodwill message, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku described Mr Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped build the Daily Times of Nigeria into one of the best newspapers in the country.