President Bola Tinubu has led millions of Nigerians and foreign experts to congratulated former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, on his 89th birthday, praising the elder statesman’s enduring contributions to Nigeria and describing his writings as evidence of deep patriotism and commitment to nation-building.
Tinubu said Obasanjo’s influence in Nigeria, across Africa and globally remains significant, noting that the former leader has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political evolution.
The President, in statement released yesterday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted Obasanjo’s long record of service to the nation, recalling his tenure as military Head of State between 1976 and 1979, when he supervised the transition to civilian rule and handed over power to an elected government.
“He later returned as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 1999 to 2007, ushering in the era of the Fourth Republic”, he added.
Tinubu also reflected on Obasanjo’s historic experiences, including his participation in the Nigerian Civil War, where he commanded troops at the warfront in defence of the country’s unity.
He further acknowledged the former president’s imprisonment during the military era after speaking out against authoritarian rule.
According to the President, beyond public office, Obasanjo has continued to shape national discourse through his books and regular interventions on governance and development.
“As Chief Obasanjo turns 89, his writings and reflections reveal a depth of patriotism and dedication to Nigeria’s progress,” Tinubu said, adding that the elder statesman’s intellectual contributions remain valuable to the country’s development process.
The president prayed for continued good health, strength and wisdom for the former president, expressing hope that Obasanjo would continue to serve Nigeria and humanity in the years ahead.
