President Bola Tinubu praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his lasting influence on the government and national discourse of Nigeria, describing him as a leader whose interventions in public affairs have helped shape policies and hold the leadership responsible.
In a tribute that marks Obasanjo's 88th birthday issued on Wednesday, Tinubu highlighted the decades of the former president to La Nación, from his military career to his mandate as a military and civil leader. He stressed that Obasanjo's contributions continue beyond their time in office, since it remains a key voice in national and global affairs.
“Sometimes controversial, the regular interventions of former President Obasanjo in national affairs have helped shape public policies and have acted as a control over leadership,” Tinubu said.
The president recalled how fate repeatedly placed Obasanjo in critical points in the history of Nigeria. From receiving the surrender instrument at the end of the civil war in 1970 to supervise a peaceful transition to the civil government in 1979, Obasanjo has been a central figure in the political evolution of the country.
Two decades later, he returned as a democratically chosen leader in 1999, leading reforms that laid the basis for the current democratic governance of Nigeria.
Beyond Nigeria, Tinubu acknowledged Obasanjo's international influence as a respected, peaceful statesman and advocated a good governance in Africa. Their roles in the African Union, the United Nations and other global institutions underline their continuous impact on diplomacy and conflict resolution.
“Outside the office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to exert considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well considered abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a problem solving,” Tinubu said.
The president praised Obasanjo's commitment to national unity, peace and progress, describing him as a leader whose efforts have shaped Nigeria's trajectory. He expressed gratitude for the contributions of Obasanjo and wished him continue strength and good health.
“At 88, the former president is still gaining strength. I pray for the Almighty God to grant him the grace and strength to live for more years so that the nation and Africa can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge, ”said Tinubu.
On behalf of the Nigerian government and its people, President Tinubu expanded sincere congratulations to Obasanjo, recognizing his lasting legacy in the history of the country.
He wished Obasanjo Happy 88 birthday.