Tinubu Hails Obasanjo at 89, Praises His Lasting Influence in Nigeria and Africa

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, describing him as a leader whose influence remains visible in Nigeria, across Africa and in wider global affairs.

Tinubu’s message was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. In the message, the president celebrated Obasanjo as an elder statesman and joined family, associates and supporters in marking the anniversary.

The president said Obasanjo’s role in national history spans both military and civilian eras. He recalled that Obasanjo served as military Head of State from 1976 to 1979 before handing power to a civilian government in 1979. Tinubu also noted that Obasanjo later returned as elected president in the Fourth Republic, serving from 1999 to 2007.

Beyond offices held, Tinubu pointed to what he called Obasanjo’s long record of sacrifice and engagement in national and continental issues. He referenced the former president’s role during the civil war period, his imprisonment for opposing military rule, and his continued participation in African political and economic conversations.

Tinubu also commended Obasanjo’s post-office contributions, saying his public writings and continuing interventions have remained part of discussions on Nigeria’s direction. According to the statement, the president said those contributions reflect sustained commitment to national growth and development.

In his goodwill message, Tinubu prayed for more years of health, strength and wisdom for the former president. He said Obasanjo’s experience and voice remain important to the country and to broader regional affairs.

Obasanjo, one of Nigeria’s most recognisable statesmen, has continued to feature in public discourse long after leaving office. Tinubu’s birthday tribute places emphasis on continuity in national service and on the value of elder leadership in shaping policy conversations, democratic development and long-term governance goals in Nigeria.