Tinubu Celebrates Obasanjo At 88 As An “Extraodinary Leader”

President Bola Tinubu has recognised former President Olusegun Obasanjo as an “extraordinary leader and statesman,” acknowledging his lasting contributions to Nigeria’s development in a heartfelt tribute marking Obasanjo’s 88th birthday on Wednesday.

Tinubu commended Obasanjo’s decades-long service to the nation, both as a military and civilian leader, emphasizing his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” Tinubu stated. The president reflected on Obasanjo’s instrumental role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, recalling that as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, Obasanjo received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970. This historic moment, Tinubu noted, underscored Obasanjo’s place in Nigeria’s history as a key figure in fostering peace and unity.

Tinubu also commended Obasanjo’s leadership during a turbulent period following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976. He praised Obasanjo’s steadfast commitment to democracy, notably overseeing the 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,” Tinubu added.

Beyond his time in office, Tinubu recognized Obasanjo’s enduring influence in national and global affairs. He described him as an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter,” applauding his efforts in conflict resolution and governance advocacy across Africa and beyond. According to Tinubu, Obasanjo’s voice in national matters has often been bold and, at times, controversial, yet it has played a vital role in shaping public policies and keeping leaders accountable.

Tinubu acknowledged that while Obasanjo’s interventions in national affairs have sometimes sparked debate, they have also influenced public policies and held leaders accountable. He praised his steadfast commitment to national unity, peace, and progress.

Concluding his tribute, Tinubu prayed for Obasanjo’s continued strength and wisdom. “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,” he said.