FORMER Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has hailed ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo who clocks 85 today.
The Wazirin Adamawa described the retired General as a leader committed to good governance in Nigeria and Africa.
In a statement, Abubakar said the celebration of Obasanjo was parallel to celebrating the vision of good leadership and pan-Africanism.
The former VP noted that the celebrant continues to put forward progressive ideals in governments across the continent.
Recalling the late 70s when Africa was under military dictatorships, Obasanjo set the pace for a transfer of power to civilian government in Nigeria.
That singular effort, according to him, began the process of democratisation across the continent.
“Similarly when he assumed office in 1999 as a civilian president, Chief Obasanjo re-enacted a convention in Africa which makes the people as the centerpiece of government policies.
“Obasanjo created an era of progressive reforms in Nigeria that continues to benefit the people of Nigeria up till today.”
Atiku said these were the reasons he continued to enjoy the goodwill of progressive politicians and statesmen, not just in Africa but globally.
Former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim, described Obasanjo as a foremost statesman and citizen of the world.
He said Obasanjo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to unity, peace, and progress of Nigeria.
The former Senate President also recalled that OBJ, as the former president is popularly called, has played key roles at various stages of Nigeria and Africa’s political history.
The congratulatory message which Anyim personally signed on Friday reads: “Baba! You are a true citizen of the world, an outstanding leader in Africa, and our nation’s pre-eminent statesman. You have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the unity, peace, and progress of our dear country, Africa, and the world at large.
“You stand out as a true patriot. You have continued to give your all to see Nigeria take her place among the comity of nations, as a richly endowed country.
“You have played key roles at various stages of Nigeria’s and Africa’s political history. At all those stages, you provided visionary and principled leadership guided by a deep love for and commitment to the wellbeing of Nigerians and the black man.
“You have remained a voice of reason, cautioning and proffering solutions as Nigeria wades through the many challenges of nation-building. You have written letters, books, given lectures at home and abroad, all in the effort to communicate your thoughts and ideas on how to make Nigeria work. As a result, your stature towers on the world stage.
“Baba, I want to assure you that Nigerians appreciate you and your noble contributions to the peace, unity, progress, and development of our dear country.
“God has blessed you with good health, strength, and sharp mind. May He continue to uphold you as you continue your worthy service to our dear country, Africa, and the world at large,” Anyim concluded.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the celebrant as a quintessential leader not only in Nigeria but globally.
He said Obasanjo, a retired Military General and elder statesman, is worth celebrating, having served Nigeria in many capacities.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the ex-President is one of the few Nigerian leaders who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the country both as military and civilian leader and left with impeccable records.
He said Chief Obasanjo at the global level, is a leader to be reckoned with due to his passionate involvement in African affairs and other global issues.
“On behalf of my family, government and the people of Lagos State, I warmly felicitate Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on his 85th birthday anniversary.
Baba Obasanjo is worth celebrating for his contribution to the development of our dear country, especially his service to the nation as a gallant military officer, Head of State and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“He has made lots of positive impacts in the country as a military officer and political leader, fighting along with several other patriots for a united Nigeria during his days in the Nigerian Army.
“He has written his name in gold as the first Nigerian to serve as Head of State and later Civilian President. He also administered the country with a focus on improving the lives of the citizens and the country’s economy.
“As Baba Obasanjo celebrates a major milestone, I join your family, friends and associates to wish you many happy returns”.
