President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 88 birthday.
In a statement on Wednesday, Tinubu described Obasanjo, as a statesman with a “selfless commitment” to national unity, peace, and progress.
He acknowledged Obasanjo’s enduring influence in both national and international politics, describing him as an “ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter”.
Tinubu highlighted Obasanjo’s role in conflict resolution, governance advocacy, and Pan-Africanism through organisations such as the African Union and the United Nations.
“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story,” the president said.
“Out of office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to wield considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well-regarded abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter.
“His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship.”
While acknowledging that the former president’s political interventions are sometimes contentious, he said they have played a role in shaping public policy.
“Sometimes controversial, former President Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs have helped shape public policies and acted as a check on leadership,” he said.
“His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship.”
