President Bola Tinubu has praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose impact on Nigeria remains significant.
In a birthday message on Wednesday, March 5, marking Obasanjo’s 88th birthday, Tinubu acknowledged his decades of service, highlighting his role in shaping the country’s political landscape both as a military and civilian leader.
“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” Tinubu said.
He recalled Obasanjo’s key role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, noting that as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, he received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970.
Tinubu also praised his leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976, commending him for overseeing a transition to civilian rule in 1979.
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“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 stated.
Beyond his time in office, Tinubu recognised Obasanjo’s enduring influence, describing him as an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter” whose contributions to conflict resolution and governance continue to earn respect across Africa and beyond.
“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 commended Obasanjo’s dedication to national unity and prayed for his continued strength.
“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,” Tinubu said.