President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday paid a mark of respect to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba during his visit to Ogun State, drawing attention from many Nigerians.
The moment took place at the Gateway International Cargo Airport, where the president arrived to commission major projects. In a video shared by the Nigerian Television Authority, Tinubu was seen bowing slightly as he greeted the two elder statesmen. The gesture was widely seen as a sign of respect, in line with Yoruba culture, where younger individuals often show humility to elders.
The airport reception brought together several top political figures and dignitaries. Among them were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and former Governor Gbenga Daniel, who stood by as the president exchanged greetings with Obasanjo and Osoba. The atmosphere was described as warm and respectful, reflecting unity among leaders from different political backgrounds.
After the brief reception, Tinubu proceeded to commission the Gateway International Cargo Airport, a major infrastructure project expected to boost economic activities in Ogun State and beyond. The airport is designed mainly for cargo operations, with a focus on improving the movement of goods, especially agricultural products and manufactured items.
Speaking at the event, officials highlighted the importance of the airport in supporting trade and investment. Ogun State is known for its industrial base, with many factories and businesses operating within its borders. The new cargo airport is expected to make it easier for goods to be transported both within Nigeria and to international markets.
In addition to commissioning the airport, the president also inaugurated two new commercial aircraft for Gateway Air, a state-owned airline. The airline operates in partnership with ValueJet, and the addition of the aircraft is expected to improve its services and expand its reach.
The move is part of efforts by the Ogun State Government to strengthen its aviation sector and create more opportunities for business and tourism. With improved air services, officials believe the state can attract more investors and visitors.
Tinubu also used the occasion to unveil a new facility for the Nigerian Customs Service. The building will serve as the Federal Operations Unit, providing support for customs activities in the region. During the ceremony, the president handed over operational vehicles to the agency to aid its work.
The Customs Service plays a key role in Nigeria’s economy by regulating imports and exports and ensuring that government revenue is collected. The new facility is expected to improve efficiency and strengthen border control operations.
Many of the projects commissioned during the visit were started by previous administrations but completed under the current government led by Governor Abiodun. This highlights the continuity of governance, where ongoing projects are carried forward to completion regardless of political changes.
Tinubu’s visit to Ogun State was originally planned for Thursday, April 2, but had to be postponed. The president had travelled to Jos, Plateau State, to sympathise with victims of recent killings in the area. The visit to Jos was part of efforts to show support and address security concerns affecting the region.
Security remains a major issue in Nigeria, with different parts of the country facing various challenges. The president’s decision to prioritise the condolence visit before attending the Ogun event was seen by some as a sign of leadership and concern for affected communities.
The visit to Ogun also carried political significance. The state is an important part of the South-West region, which has played a key role in Nigeria’s political history. Leaders like Obasanjo and Osoba are respected figures with strong influence, and their presence at the event added weight to the occasion.
The moment when Tinubu bowed to the elder statesmen has since sparked reactions on social media, with many Nigerians praising the gesture. Some described it as a reminder of the importance of respect and cultural values, even at the highest levels of leadership.
In Yoruba culture, showing respect to elders is deeply valued, and public displays of such respect are often appreciated. Tinubu, who is from the South-West, is known to observe these cultural practices, and his action at the airport reflected this tradition.
As Nigeria continues to focus on development and nation-building, events like this highlight both the importance of infrastructure and the role of leadership in shaping public perception. The commissioning of projects in Ogun State is expected to have long-term benefits for the economy, while the president’s gesture has added a human and cultural dimension to the visit.
For many residents of Ogun State, the day marked a significant moment, bringing together past and present leaders while showcasing new developments that could improve livelihoods. The success of these projects will depend on how well they are managed and maintained in the years ahead.
Tinubu’s visit ended with optimism about the future, as government officials expressed hope that the new airport, improved airline services, and enhanced customs operations would contribute to economic growth and job creation.