Former President Olusegun Obasanjo received birthday congratulations and well wishes from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which described him as a strong proponent of democracy.
In a statement, PDP National Chairman Kabiru Turaki, SAN, praised Obasanjo’s contribution to Nigeria and called the former president a remarkable leader and a statesman of historic significance who made sure Nigerian democracy survived.
The party recalled Obasanjo’s crucial contribution to stabilizing the country and strengthening democracy at a significant juncture in Nigerian history.
Obasanjo created a model for democratic transition, according to PDP, which described him as the first Military Head of State to peacefully surrender power to a democratically elected government.
Obasanjo was the first President of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, according to the PDP, which also commemorated his term and highlighted his contributions to the nation’s progress.
The party applauded Obasanjo’s efforts to fortify Nigeria’s democratic institutions and his dedication to democracy.
on recognition of Obasanjo’s lasting influence on Nigerian politics, the PDP wished him a happy birthday and continued good health.
In the statement, the PDP expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s national service and acknowledged his influence on Nigeria’s democratic transition.
“We celebrate a great believer in democracy and a statesman of historic significance—the first Military Head of State to voluntarily transfer power to a democratically elected administration,” the statement says.
“As our party’s first presidential candidate and the first president of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, you were instrumental in establishing democracy and stabilizing our republic at a vital point in our country’s history.
“We honor your service to the country on this unique occasion and wish you continued health and a very happy birthday,” the message said.
As he celebrates his 89th birthday, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has characterized former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo as a lasting study in leadership, public service, and national duty for younger generations.
The statement was delivered by Governor Abiodun at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta on Thursday during the 89th birthday lecture honoring the elder statesman, which had the theme “The Global Africa Enlightenment: From Chains to Renaissance.”
The governor asserts that strong institutions and leaders who are prepared to see beyond their own interests are essential to the success of the country.
He pointed out that the lecture’s theme captures Africa’s historical history, from colonial dominance to the continent’s continuous quest for advancement, growth, and dignity.
Africa’s future, according to Abiodun, depends on bolstering institutions, making knowledge investments, and creating societies that support justice, creativity, and unity.
He remembered that economic restructuring, budgetary restraint, and public sector reforms were made possible by the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS), which was established during the Obasanjo administration.
The governor added that during Obasanjo’s 1999–2007 presidency, a number of important reforms were implemented to reposition the Nigerian economy. These included the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the 2003 banking sector reforms, and revolutionary changes in the telecom sector.
“Baba, your impact has spread throughout Africa and the larger world community, especially in the fields of diplomacy and conflict resolution.
“You have acted as a peace envoy and mediator in a number of regional wars over the years, including those in Ethiopia, Liberia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
“You have continuously advocated for communication as a means of achieving peace and stability through the African Union, the United Nations, and numerous international projects.
“Young Africans need to study leaders like Baba, not just to honor their accomplishments but also to comprehend the values that inform their choices. They need to understand how leadership, motivated by service and purpose, can change the course of a country or even a continent,” he continued.
Governor Abiodun added that Obasanjo’s role as military head of state was crucial in aiding liberation movements throughout the continent.
He remembered that Obasanjo’s belief that the independence of one African nation is directly linked to the freedom of all prompted Nigeria to stand resolutely against colonial domination and apartheid.
In his presentation titled “The Global Africa Enlightenment: From Chains to Renaissance,” Jean Robert Pillard, the Haitian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of South Africa, stated that culture serves as a reminder of humanity’s common identity while history serves as a unifying force.
Pillard pointed out that culture should be viewed as evidence that African peoples’ division was political rather than spiritual rather than as a sign of nostalgia.
He clarified that while history protects memory, destiny demands action, and that the idea of the Global Africa Enlightenment is a reunion of peoples with shared history and tradition rather than a creation.
The ambassador claims that former President Obasanjo’s appeal for a Global Africa Enlightenment is a policy direction and plan for the revival of African civilization rather than just a lyrical statement.
Speaking during the event as well, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, called the celebrant an inspiration to many Africans and Nigerians.
He went on to say that Obasanjo’s enormous contributions to the advancement of Nigeria and the African continent would continue to benefit future generations.
