Tribute: Tinubu hails former President Obasanjo at 89

*President Bola Tinubu felicitates Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President and elder statesman, on his 89th Birthday March 5, stating that his towering influence in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond is significant

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Nigerian President and elder statesman, on his 89th Birthday March 5.

Tinubu rejoiced with Chief Obasanjo, whose towering influence in the country, Africa, and beyond is significant.

The Nigerian President also noted the courage and sacrifices of the elder statesman, who previously served the West African country as the Military Head of State from 1976 to 1979, handing over power to a civilian president in

1979, and later as the first civilian President in the Fourth Republic, between 1999 and 2007.

President Tinubu as well affirmed the historic experiences of the former leader, including leading troops to preserve Nigeria’s unity at the warfront, serving time in prison for speaking out against tyranny, and consistently pursuing Africa’s political and economic interests.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement Wednesday, March 4, 2026, noted President Tinubu said as Chief Obasanjo turned 89, he acknowledged the zeal and wisdom that the former President has brought into Nigeria’s development process through his books and regular interventions.

All these revealed a depth of patriotism to nation-building, stated Tinubu.

The statement noted President Tinubu prayed for more years of good health, strength, and wisdom for the former President as he “continues to serve the nation and humanity.”