The remarkable life and enduring legacy of former President Olusegun Obasanjo were this midweek praised by dignitaries from all walks of life who attended the 88th birthday celebration of the revered elder statesman.
At the birthday celebration featuring among others, lecture and book presentations held at the OOPL, Abeokuta, accolades were showered on Chief Obasanjo for doing Nigeria and Africa proud.
In their congratulatory messages delivered online, former President Goodluck Jonathan and the President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina described the former President as an apostle of peace and stability in Nigeria and in the diaspora,pointing out that his visionary and outstanding leadership are worthy of emulation.
In a goodwill message, Governor Dapo Abiodun described Chief Obasanjo as a strong and influential figure in the Nigerian history whose life and times are defined by his commitment and passion to the progress of the nation and and the African continent at large.
Represented by his Deputy, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun acknowledged the diplomatic skills the former President possesses which according to him were evident in the celebrant’s engagements on the continental and global stages, adding that his zeal for promoting unity, economic reliance and good governance in Africa is a testament to his love for sustainable development in the black nations.
Governor Abiodun prayed for divine grace for the former President to celebrate more purposeful years of guidance for the next generation of leaders.
Other speakers at the occasion,including Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state as well as former Governors Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Sule Lamido said Chief Obasanjo is a true Nigerian as well as a prudent administrator devoted to good governance and leadership, serving humanity with sincerity.
In a remark, Chief Obasanjo expressed gratitude to God whose unending grace made the celebration possible just as he thanked the organisers and guests for joining him to celebrate the milestone.
He described the two books presented at the ceremony entitled, ” Lest we forget : slavery, slave trade, emancipation and reparation” and Nigeria: past and the future” which he authored as timely, saying for Nigeria to truly break away from slavery and colonialism and attain the desired enviable position ,all hands must be on deck towards achieving the goal.
Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, former Governors, Peter Obi, Emeka Ihedioha and Sam Egwu among others all graced the event.
