Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extolled former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history, whose unwavering commitment to national development and Africa’s progress continues to shape the continent.
Speaking at Obasanjo’s 88th birthday celebration, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library auditorium in Abeokuta, Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, described the elder statesman as a leader whose influence transcends generations.
“As a soldier, Head of State, and a democratically elected President, Baba Obasanjo has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political and economic trajectory with remarkable vision and leadership,” Abiodun stated.
He noted that despite retiring from public office, Obasanjo remains a strong voice in governance, diplomacy, and development across Africa. “Beyond Nigeria, Baba is a true Pan-Africanist, whose dedication to peace and regional cooperation has strengthened Africa’s place on the global stage,” he added.
The event also featured the launch of two books, one written by Obasanjo and another edited by him. Abiodun remarked that the books reflect the former president’s wealth of experience and his deep concerns for Africa’s future. He prayed for Obasanjo’s continued good health and long life.
In a virtual address, the President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, lauded Obasanjo’s wisdom and peacemaking efforts, describing him as a “leader of leaders, a role model, and a preacher of peace.” He recalled how Obasanjo’s leadership paved the way for his own rise, stating, “Without him, I would not have become a Minister. Under his presidency, Nigeria witnessed remarkable development.”
Guest speaker, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, Director General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future.” He stressed the need for a mental shift to break free from the lingering effects of slavery and colonization. “Our leaders must embrace a forward-looking vision, and our youth must decolonize their mindset—our dress, diet, language, and medical practices still bear the marks of colonial influence,” he noted.
Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, also praised Obasanjo as a patriot and peacemaker, emphasizing that Nigeria must move beyond the colonial past. “We are not the only nation colonized, but until we get governance and leadership right, progress will remain elusive,” he said.
Traditional rulers and academics at the event emphasized the need for cultural revival. The Olowu of Owu, HRM Oba Saka Matemilola, lamented the erosion of indigenous languages and customs. “Colonialism did not just take our resources; it colonized our minds. Many parents discourage their children from speaking local dialects, replacing traditional meals with foreign diets,” he observed.
Similarly, Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran, Vice Chancellor of Bells University of Technology, called for the restoration of history studies in schools, stating, “We must decolonize our minds and embrace our historical identity.”
In his remarks, the celebrant, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, expressed gratitude to all attendees, reaffirming his commitment to national and continental development. “Until we completely break free from the shackles of slavery and colonization, meaningful progress will remain elusive,” he asserted.
He urged Nigerians to take responsibility for the nation’s growth, saying, “If we desire a prosperous nation, we must all play our roles diligently. I will continue to advocate for peace and strive for Africa’s economic development.”
