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.
