‘Sometimes controversial’ — Tinubu celebrates Obasanjo at 88, acknowledges his impact on Nigeria

• Despite controversy, Obasanjo’s interventions in national affairs have shaped public policy and held leaders accountable.
• Tinubu prayed for Obasanjo’s continued wisdom, strength, and longevity, acknowledging his impact on Nigeria and Africa.

President Bola Tinubu described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose contributions to Nigeria’s progress remain significant and enduring.

He stated that Obasanjo’s frequent involvement in national matters, though ”sometimes controversial”, has influenced governance and ensured that leaders remain accountable in decision-making.

In a tribute on Wednesday marking Obasanjo’s 88th birthday, Tinubu commended his decades of service, highlighting his role in shaping Nigeria as both 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 crucial role in ending the Nigerian Civil War, noting that as an Army colonel, he accepted the instrument of surrender from Biafran Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970.

Tinubu also acknowledged Obasanjo’s leadership after General Murtala Muhammed’s assassination in 1976, praising his commitment to democracy by ensuring a peaceful transition to civilian rule in 1979.

“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,” the President stated.

Beyond his time in office, Tinubu recognized Obasanjo’s ongoing influence in national and global affairs, calling him an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter,” whose mediation and governance efforts have earned him 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.

Tinubu praised Obasanjo’s dedication to national unity, peace, and progress, offering prayers for continued strength and wisdom for the former president.

“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.