Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, commending the elder statesman for his decades of service and commitment to Nigeria’s unity and development.
In a message posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), described Obasanjo as a leader whose life has been defined by courage, patriotism, and dedication to national progress.
Atiku, who served as vice president under Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007, said the former president’s contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic growth remain significant.
“As President Olusegun Obasanjo celebrates his 89th birthday, I honour a life marked by service, courage, and unwavering dedication to Nigeria,” Atiku wrote.
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He noted that Obasanjo’s influence on Nigeria’s political evolution and his efforts to promote national unity continue to resonate across the country.
The former vice president described Obasanjo as a mentor and a statesman whose leadership legacy reflects the strength and diversity of the Nigerian nation.
He also prayed for the former president’s continued good health and long life.
“I pray that God grants him continued good health, strength, and many more years of meaningful service to our nation and humanity,” he added.
Atiku further extended his personal greetings on behalf of his family, congratulating Obasanjo for reaching another milestone.
“On behalf of my family, I extend warm congratulations to my former boss and a statesman whose life exemplifies the strength and beauty of Nigeria’s diversity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Obasanjo recently dismissed rumours circulating online suggesting that he had written a letter concerning his own death.
Speaking during a colloquium held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as part of activities marking his 89th birthday, the former president described the speculation as baseless.
Delivering a lecture titled “Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Global Africa to the World,” Obasanjo maintained that he remains strong and in good health at 89.
“I dey kampe,” he said, dismissing suggestions about his death and affirming that he is still active.
He also criticised individuals spreading such rumours, stressing that the length of his life ultimately rests in the hands of God.
Obasanjo served as Nigeria’s military head of state between 1976 and 1979 and later returned as a democratically elected president from 1999 to 2007, playing a pivotal role in the country’s transition to democratic rule.
