President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 88th birthday as “controversial” while eulogising the latter’s contributions to nation-building.
He also described the former statesman as an “extraordinary leader ” whose contributions to Nigeria’s development remain indelible.
In a birthday tribute on Wednesday to mark Obasanjo’s 88th birthday, Tinubu hailed the former president’s decades-long service to the nation, acknowledging his role in shaping Nigeria’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.
According to Tinubu, Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs, although sometimes controversial, have helped shape public policies and put leaders in check.
“Sometimes controversial, former President Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs have helped shape public policies and acted as a check on leadership.
“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.
Tinubu also lauded Obasanjo’s statesmanship and dedication to national unity, peace, and progress, praying for continued strength and wisdom for the former leader.
To Tinubu, the former President wields enduring influence in national and global affairs. He further described Obasanjo as an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter,” whose efforts in conflict resolution and governance advocacy have earned him respect across Africa and beyond.
Recounting Obasanjo’s pivotal role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, the President said that as a colonel in the Nigerian Army, he received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970.
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Tinubu also highlighted Obasanjo’s leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976, commending his commitment to democracy by overseeing a transition to civilian rule in 1979.
“General Obasanjo implemented critical policies and reforms and made important decisions that profoundly impacted the lives of many Nigerians. As the head of state, he consistently demonstrated a selfless commitment to national unity, peace, and progress.
“Out of office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to wield considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well-regarded abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter.
“His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship,” he stated.
