Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, marked his 88th birthday in grand style today, March 5, 2025, with a spectacular celebration attended by top dignitaries, political figures, business moguls, and traditional rulers.
The prestigious event took place at The Delborough Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, a venue befitting the occasion, where some of Nigeria’s most influential personalities gathered to honor the elder statesman and recognize his contributions to the country’s development.
Among the prominent guests at the event were former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience Jonathan, who shared warm moments with Obasanjo. Also present was former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who joined in the celebration to pay tribute to his former political ally. Former Senate President Bukola Saraki attended the occasion alongside his wife, Toyin Saraki, showing deep respect for the former leader.
The celebration also drew the presence of respected traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who honored the gathering with his royal presence. Also in attendance was billionaire businessman Razaq Akanni Okoya and his wife, Shade Okoya, adding further prestige to the remarkable event. Notably, former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, was also spotted among the distinguished guests.
The birthday celebration was not only graced by politicians and royal figures but also by some of Nigeria’s most famous socialites and entertainment moguls. Billionaire businessman and socialite E-Money was among the attendees, along with nightlife king Obi Cubana and celebrity barman Cubana Chief Priest, all of whom added a touch of glamour and excitement to the event.
In recognition of the special day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid glowing tribute to Obasanjo, describing him as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” whose contributions to Nigeria’s development have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
In a statement released in honor of Obasanjo’s 88th birthday, Tinubu emphasized the former president’s decades of service, commending his role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. He acknowledged that while some of Obasanjo’s interventions in national matters have sparked debates, they have significantly influenced public policy and helped hold leaders accountable.
Tinubu also reflected on Obasanjo’s military career, recalling his pivotal role in bringing an end to the Nigerian Civil War. As a colonel in the Nigerian Army, Obasanjo famously received the instrument of surrender from Biafran Army Commander, Col. Philip Effiong, in 1970, an act that officially marked the end of the brutal conflict.
Beyond his military achievements, Tinubu highlighted Obasanjo’s leadership following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in 1976. He lauded Obasanjo’s commitment to democracy, which ultimately led to a peaceful transition to civilian rule in 1979—an event that remains a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Furthermore, Tinubu acknowledged Obasanjo’s historic return to power as Nigeria’s democratically elected president in 1999. He pointed out that his leadership ushered in the Fourth Republic, which has now endured for 25 years, serving as a foundation for Nigeria’s democratic governance.
Even after leaving office, Obasanjo has remained an active and influential figure in both national and international affairs. Tinubu described him as a “global peace ambassador and troubleshooter,” commending his contributions to conflict resolution, governance advocacy, and diplomatic mediation across Africa and beyond.
“At 88, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo remains strong and active. I pray that God grants him more years of wisdom and strength so that Nigeria and Africa can continue to benefit from his wealth of experience,” Tinubu stated in his tribute message.
The birthday celebration was not just a gathering of political elites; it also attracted celebrities, business magnates, and well-wishers from different walks of life. Guests at the event enjoyed an evening filled with warm speeches, musical performances, and heartfelt moments of appreciation for Obasanjo’s impact on Nigeria and Africa.
The grandeur of the event, the high-profile attendance, and the outpouring of goodwill messages all reflected the significance of the occasion and Obasanjo’s enduring legacy in Nigerian history.
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