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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo Revels at 87

Published

8 months ago

March 10, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Two terms civilian president and former military head of state, Olusegun Obasanjo, has celebrated his 87th birthday, looking fit as a fiddle. The multi-faceted birthday celebration accommodated praises, get-together and book launch among others, thereby igniting the Obasanjo Farm home of the former leader, located in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Born on March 5, 1937, in Abeokuta, Obasanjo, who is arguably Nigeria’s biggest political brand, served as President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, during which time he played an instrumental role in bringing democracy back to the Nigeria.

His political and economic sagacity within the period has remained a reference point for subsequent administrations both in Nigeria and the African continent.

He was Chairperson of the African Union from July 2004 to January 2006, and was inducted by the UN as Special Envoy for Africa in 2008. Since then, he has overseen elections in countries across the African continent on behalf of the African Union and ECOWAS.

A man, who draws accolades, and sometimes criticisms as result of his fearless position on issues of both regional and national importance, Obasanjo has received praise both for overseeing Nigeria’s transition to representative democracy in the 1970s and for his Pan-African efforts to encourage cooperation across the continent.

THE BOOK LAUNCH

In commemoration of the 87th birthday, Obasanjo unveiled a new book, titled: “The Art of Leading: Unconventional Wisdom from Biblical Leaders.”

The book, according to his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, was unveiled a day before the birthday, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with notable personalities including the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, in attendance

Speaking during the launch of the book and dinner held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library as part of his 87th birthday anniversary, the celebrant said without quality leadership Africa would not progress much.

While reviewing the book, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Hassan Kukah, said “the 13-chapter book spoke on how Christians can make an impact in politics, stressing that Nigerian leaders must cooperate with the grace of God.”

According to the statement, Kukah said Christians in politics must infuse values into politics which must be evident for all to see.

The special guest of honour and former president of Ghana, John Mahama, in his remarks, said leaders should lead with wisdom.

The event was said to have been attended by traditional rulers, captains of industry, diplomatic corps members, academics from tertiary institutions, and close associates of the former President.

WHAT TOP SOCIETY SAID ABOUT OBASANJO

As the former president celebrates, accolades and encomium have continued to flow from top society.

A LEADING VOICE ON POLITICAL EMANCIPATION – Dapo Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has described Obasanjo as a leading voice in the quest for political emancipation and good governance.

Abiodun stated this at a lecture to mark Obasanjo’s 87th birthday at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.

The lecture was tagged: “Quality Leadership and Inclusive Democracy as Catalysts for Development in a Strife-Ridden World.”

Abiodun said Obasanjo was a global leader despite being deeply connected with his roots.

“Baba has become a world-respected democratic leader, a detribalised Nigerian, and a pan-African whose passion and vision is for Africa that is being led by quality leadership for the desired economic development.

“Baba is deeply connected to his roots. Baba’s passion for his culture and tradition is unparalleled.

“Baba remains the leading voice in his quest for political emancipation, good governance, anti-corruption, and social justice,” Abiodun said.

The governor commended the former President for being far-sighted with a knack for nurturing leaders.

The event was chaired by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who identified access to justice, quality of elections, and tribalism as some of the factors working against quality leadership in Africa.

Jonathan said there was a need to look at the issues of winner-takes-it-all in politics, noting that an elected President does not belong to his political party alone.

OBASANJO IS A TRUE PATRIOT – Peter Obi

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, also felicitated with Obasanjo, as he joined him in his Birthday Thanksgiving Service at The Chapel of Christ The Glorious King, OOPL, Abeokuta to mark the commencement of his 87th birthday celebrations, describing him as a true patriot whose ultimate desire is the development and progress of our nation.

Obi said, “I was delighted to celebrate with this very revered Nigerian who has contributed immeasurably to the growth of our nation. His love for the nation is very evident in his firm commitment to the unity and peace of our dear nation.

“President Obasanjo remains a true leader who not only engineered so many positive transformations in our nation but left behind a sound economic foundation, which if we have followed, we would not be in the sorry state we are today.

“With our dear nation, going through very challenging times, occasioned by leadership failure, President Obasanjo has continued to courageously add his voice to demand good governance in the country. He not only speaks, but he takes action to ensure that our nation is saved from further chaos.

“As a father figure, he has continued to inspire and mentor the younger generation in transformational leadership. I am delighted to celebrate him today,” Obi enthused.

The former governor of Anambra State prayed to God to grant Obasanjo more healthy and fruitful years, as he continues to play his part in the development of the nation, through his immeasurable contributions.

OBASANJO INSPIRES FAITH IN NIGERIA – Ademola Adeleke

Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke, on his part, also felicitated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a patriot who inspires faith in Nigeria.

Governor Adeleke who salutes Chief Obasanjo for his selfless contributions towards the advancement of Nigeria, praises him for making the service to the country a point of call.

Adeleke in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, hailed the former president for the sacrifices and moral support put into making sure that Nigeria navigates through turbulent times.

The governor recognises Obasanjo’s frontline roles in restoring peace and stability in the African continent, adding that his efforts towards sustaining democracy and national unity remained outstanding and commendable.

“I join family, friends and associates to celebrate a great patriot and passionate leader, His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on the occasion of his 85th birthday,” the governor noted in a congratulatory message.

“Chief Obasanjo embodies sacrifices, dedicating decades to the Nigeria project, bleeding himself on the field for the unity of Nigeria, and as a civilian president, initiated a series of reforms that took Nigeria out of the woods and set it on the course of growth and prosperity.”

OBASANJO HAS DEMONSTRATED EXCEPTIONAL WISDOM AND STATESMANLIKE QUALITIES – Charles Soludo

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, expressed warm felicitations to former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the celebration of his 87th birthday.

The Governor noted President Obasanjo’s journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, unparalleled dedication to public service, and an uncommon commitment to the advancement and peace of our nation and the African continent as a whole.

“His visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Nigeria in a way that continues to inspire successive leaders.

“Throughout his illustrious life, President Obasanjo has demonstrated exceptional wisdom and statesmanlike qualities that continue to guide Nigeria through the complexities of changing times.

“His relentless pursuit of peace, unity, and progress, as well as his steadfast resolve in fostering dialogue on critical issues such as governance, economic development, and regional stability has earned him respect and admiration both at home and abroad.

“In addition to his contributions to governance and diplomacy, President Obasanjo remains a symbol of resilience and courage in the face of adversity. His dedication to the ideals of democracy and justice serves as a guiding light for all who aspire to build a better, more equitable society.”

OBASANJO’S LIFE IS A TESTAMENT OF UNWAVERING DEDICATION – Bala Mohammed

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has also extended his warmest felicitations and best wishes to the former president.

Governor Mohammed described the life of Chief Obasanjo a testament to his unwavering dedication, commitment, exceptional leadership qualities and enduring service to our beloved nation .

The Governor said, through the years, the visionary leadership of Chief Obasanjo has guided Nigeria through both triumphs and challenges, with an unwavering resolve to uphold the principles of democracy, unity and progress.

“Your distinguished military career to your transformation tenure as president of Nigeria , have consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the advancement of our great nation and the betterment of our people,” the governor said.

The governor prayed for the continued good health , happiness , prosperity of the former president in the years ahead as well as his long lasting legacy to continue to inspire and uplift all Nigerians as we strive towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

Obasanjo has remained Nigeria’s most prolific president since the return to civil rule in 1999.

Featured

Diamed Partners Hospital for Humanity to Perform 20 Free Heart Surgeries

Published

1 day ago

November 16, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The Diagnostic and Medical (Diamed) Centre located in Lagos, is partnering with the Hospital for Humanity, a US-based 501(c)3 organization, and a registered Nigerian NGO, dedicated to providing free open-heart surgeries to children with heart conditions, to conduct free open heart surgeries for 20 beneficiaries.

This gesture is targeted at members of the host community, who can not afford the bill.

According to media broadcast by the management of HFH, the “Hospitals for Humanity has performed almost two hundred open heart surgeries in the last ten years here in Nigeria.”

They noted that the reason the Hospital for Humanity is in Lagos is “because we are happy to partner with the new hospital called Diamed Center here in Lagos and this partnership is dynamic because it brings together an organization who has successfully completed her open heart surgeries and a new organization to perform the surgery on site.”

The hospital added that “We select the patient based on the severity of their congenital heart disease, so they have been seen by their own Pediatric Cardiologist and voluntaries come from all over the world, we have an executive team who have come from Asia, we have nurses and doctors who come from the US.”

Lending credence to the functionality of the Hospital for Humanity programme, one of the heart doctors, Njem Josia informed that “So far we have taken three patients, and we are hoping to take several victims.”

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Hospitals for Humanity, Dr. Myna Shegog, commended Diamed for the partnership, and for being a dynamic health organisation while soliciting donors to continue to contribute to the project so that much more victims of heart related ailments could be reached out to.

She said, “So because we are a non profit organization, 501C3 as it’s called in the United States. All of our capital comes from donors, donors like yourself, so ask for donations because that’s what sustains our program. People’s generosity will even do one heart surgery so because of the generosity of people like you, we are able to do this heart surgeries, we are able to pay for rooms and boards for families when they come to Nigeria so that is what your donation go towards, we are providing free heart surgeries to those in need.

“So Diamed Center is a dynamic organization we have been able to partner with as this is not just a one time thing as this collaboration will last for a long time.”

Diamed Centre, located in Lekki, Lagos, began operations earlier in 2024, has continued to be in the forefront of providing first class health care.

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Tunde Bakare Celebrates Legacy Year, Thanks God @70, Launches New Book

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2024

Eric

By Temidayo Adewole

November 11, 2023, marked a significant milestone in the life of Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church, as he celebrated his 70th birthday. The day was filled with gratitude, praise, and festivity, reflecting the pastor’s life of service, leadership, and dedication to God’s kingdom.

The celebration began with a heartfelt thanksgiving service at The Citadel Global Community Church. The sanctuary was packed with members of the congregation, dignitaries, family, and friends, all gathered to honor Pastor Bakare’s life and legacy.

As the service commenced, Lady Evangelist Yinka Alaseyori led the congregation in soul-stirring worship, setting the tone for a spirit-filled celebration.

Afterwards, the Bible reading was taken by Fisayo Bakare, one of the daughters of the Pastor Bakare.

The likes of Former Governor of Awka Ibom Victor Ata, Former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, Former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, Mr Jimi Agbaje, Professor Ibe kachuwku and many others paid glowing tributes to the birthday boy.

A short documentary of the life of Pastor Tunde Bakare was broadcast for the guests just as relatives, close friends and more special guests Pastor including Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Bishop Wale Oke, and Pastor Paul Adefarasin. They separately highlighted Pastor Bakare’s contributions to nation-building, leadership, and community development, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity.

There was also prayers for the Celebrant by Pastor Oladele, Bishop Wale Oke and Rev. Dr Babajide.

There was afterwards the unveiling and launching of the Celebrant book titled “The Last But Definitely Not the Least” led by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, assisted by other dignitaries.

The vote of thanks was given by the Celebrant, Pastor Bakare, who reflected on God’s faithfulness throughout his life, sharing personal testimonies and experiences that highlighted his journey.

In his words (My father has 22 children and I am the 22nd and I’m the only one alive with 22 grandchildren).

He also said (I was trained by 3 Generals In the ministry, Pastor Kumuyi Taught me Holiness, Pastor Adeboye taught me about Faith) He emphasized the importance of gratitude, humility, and service, encouraging the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith.

After the thanksgiving service, guests proceeded to the church’s event center for a grand reception. The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter, and warmth as friends, family, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate Pastor Bakare’s life.

The reception featured a cake cutting ceremony, gift presentations, musical performances by renowned highlife artist King Sunny Ade. and photo exhibitions showcasing Pastor Bakare’s life and ministry. Dignitaries, including politicians, business leaders, and clergy, took turns to felicitate with Pastor Bakare, praising his selfless service and leadership.

Pastor Bakare’s family members, including his children and grandchildren, presented a heartfelt tribute, expressing their gratitude for his love, guidance, and example.

In his response, Pastor Bakare thanked God, his family, and the church for their unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to serving God’s kingdom, emphasizing that his life’s work was far from over.

As the reception drew to a close, Pastor Bakare was surrounded by loved ones, basking in the joy and appreciation of a life well-lived.

The 70th birthday celebration of Pastor Tunde Bakare will be remembered as a testament to his enduring legacy, a life marked by faith, service, and dedication to God’s kingdom.

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Quality Service Delivery: Bowen’s VC Commends Globacom’s Strides

Published

3 days ago

November 14, 2024

Eric

Globacom has received commendation from the Vice Chancellor of BOWEN University, Iwo, Osun State, Professor Jonathan Oyebamiji Babalola, for consistently delivering digital services to the university over the years.

This acclamation was made by Professor Babalola during a business meeting in his office at the University of Iwo in Osun State, when he hosted a team from Globacom’s Enterprise Business Group.

The VC conveyed how much he enjoyed working with Globacom and encouraged the company to keep up its uninterrupted services to the academic community.

In order to help the university fulfill its mission of creating better products and advance the frontiers of academic development, he also asked Globacom to support BOWEN University through a number of CSR initiatives.

Speaking at the meeting, Adeniyi Odejobi, the Enterprise Business Lead, Globacom, said that the company has been a major telecommunications service provider in Nigeria, providing telephony and digital solution services for millions of people across the country as well as enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses, large corporations, public sector organizations, and universities. It is also a digital solutions company.

According to Adeniyi, Glo has been at the forefront of revolutionary changes in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector for more than 20 years and is largely to be commended for democratizing the use of telephones and telephony services across the country over the years. “Because of Globacom, every Nigerian today can afford a telephone line”, he noted.

According to Adeniyi, Globacom also evolved a good number of innovations that have aided revolutionary developments in the Nigerian telecom sector, such as Globacom’s fully owned international submarine cable, Glo 1.

In order to advance the university, Adeniyi urged it to deepen its collaboration with Glo in order to offer digital services such as Glo LMS, Toll-Free Data, and Mobility services.