As the world mourns the passing of Jimmy Carter, former President of Nigeria, General Olusegun Obasanjo, has paid a glowing tribute to the 39th President of the United States, remembering him as a symbol of “humble power” and exemplary leadership. Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, is remembered not only for his time in office but also for his significant contributions to global peace and humanitarian causes after leaving the White House.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with ARISE NEWS, Obasanjo shared his admiration for Carter’s ability to wield power with restraint and humility. “Jimmy Carter was a man who understood power, but he also understood that the duty of power is rarely in using it but in understanding it,” Obasanjo stated. The Nigerian leader emphasized that Carter’s approach to power was far from the aggressive tactics often associated with political figures. Instead, Carter’s legacy, according to Obasanjo, lies in his ability to use power effectively without resorting to force.
“One of the greatest lessons we can learn from him is that power doesn’t have to be forceful,” Obasanjo continued. “He knew that power lies in people knowing it’s there, and yet you do not need to use it unnecessarily. Don’t use a hammer to kill an ant, and that is what you see in President Carter.”
Obasanjo praised Carter for his pivotal role in bringing about the historic peace agreement between Israel and Egypt in 1979. “Bringing Israel and Egypt together was one great achievement in his legacy,” Obasanjo remarked, referring to Carter’s remarkable diplomatic efforts during the Camp David Accords. The former Nigerian president also highlighted Carter’s deep understanding of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, noting that Carter’s book on the issue provided an equitable solution that any leader should strive to find when addressing international crises.
“Carter understood the problem, he understood the genesis, and he prescribed what I will call an equitable solution,” Obasanjo said. “A good leader doesn’t jump into problems without understanding them, without knowing the history. There are many ways to kill a chicken, but what is the best way? That is a valuable lesson we should learn from President Carter.”
Beyond his presidency, Obasanjo commended Carter’s dedication to humanitarian causes and his continued advocacy for civil rights and democracy. Even after stepping down from office, Carter remained an active figure in global affairs, particularly in promoting human rights and democracy. Obasanjo recalled a personal encounter during a trip with Carter when both men were serving on the board of trustees for the Ford Foundation.
“After leaving government, he devoted his life to humanitarian affairs, civil rights, and western liberal democracy,” Obasanjo said. “He was persistent on that front. I remember when we traveled together on an errand for the Ford Foundation. The Foundation policy was that we would fly business class, and even though Carter was a former president of the United States, he did not insist on flying first class. He was humble.”
The former Nigerian leader drew a stark contrast between Carter’s demeanor and the often more entitled attitudes of some world leaders. For Obasanjo, Carter’s humility was a central part of what made him a great leader. “He was active until he had no power to be active anymore,” Obasanjo said, referring to Carter’s ongoing contributions long after leaving office.
Obasanjo also took the opportunity to address the current state of leadership in the world, urging both current and former leaders to continue contributing to the welfare of their countries and the global community. “I believe that if you have had the fortune to be president, prime minister, or any top political leader, your task should not end when you leave office,” he emphasized. “Leadership doesn’t just end when you leave power. You acquire experience, you make important connections, and you must use that knowledge and network for the good of the world.”
He further explained that global leadership must extend beyond political office. “Part of the problem of the world today is what I call a deficit of leadership,” Obasanjo said. “It’s not just about the political level; it’s about leadership at all levels. Those who have had the opportunity to serve, they should realize that the world is like a village. If anyone fails to play their part, that village will soon be spoiled.”
