Yesterday, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the city echoed with cheers as Nigeria’s former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, celebrated his 88th birthday. Held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), the event attracted politicians, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the nation. Among the guests were Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, former governors like Ibikunle Amosun, and prominent figures such as Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Yusuf Datti-Ahmed.
Despite the star-studded occasion, it was Obasanjo’s optimistic message for Nigeria that took centre stage.
In his speech, the former president called for greater patriotism and unity among Nigerians, urging citizens to rise above their ethnic, religious, and political differences for the greater good of the nation. “We must build Nigeria to an enviable status in the world,” he said. “We must all work together to make Nigeria a proud and progressive nation.”
Obasanjo’s remarks on the state of Nigeria were laced with optimism. “Yes, the situation is bad,” he acknowledged, referring to the country’s struggles. “But I am an incurable optimist about Nigeria. I believe in my lifetime, we will have the Nigeria that we will all be proud of.”
His comments highlighted his long-standing faith in the country’s future, despite the challenges. Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s president from 1999 to 2007, highlighted that a unified leadership with selfless intentions could steer the country toward progress.
“It’s not enough to just wish for a better Nigeria,” he added. “We must act, and we must act now. Our leadership must be willing to do the hard work to make this vision a reality.”
Obasanjo’s 88th birthday was not only a celebration of his life but also an opportunity to unveil two new books he authored. The first, Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation, touches on Africa’s painful history with slavery and colonialism. The second, Nigeria: Past and Future, is an exploration of Nigeria’s past and a roadmap for its future.
These books are more than just personal accomplishments for Obasanjo; they reflect his deep concerns for the future of both Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“The residues of slave trade, slavery, and colonialism still affect us today,” Obasanjo explained. “Until we can break free from these remnants, we will not reach our full potential.”
His call for African nations to rid themselves of colonial legacies echoed through the hall. He urged the continent to shed the mental chains of the past, stressing that only then could African nations take their rightful place on the world stage. “We must never be re-enslaved again,” he said firmly.
This playful comment brought a light-hearted end to the day’s events, but also revealed the deep cultural significance Obasanjo places on his heritage. The connection to his roots is something he has always celebrated, and this birthday celebration was no different.
