Obasanjo, an icon at 79 – TUC

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

The Trade UnionCongress of Nigeria heartily congratulates an icon and former president of our great country, General Olusegun Aremu Okikiola Matthew Obasanjo on his 79th birthday.

Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama, President, TUC, in a congratulatory message the elder statesman said, “We cannot forget him in a hurry because of his role in the registration of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria as a Labour Centre in 2005.

Chief Obasanjo’s contributions to peace and democracy around the world has saved nations from serious crisis. As a global player, he brought his personality to bear and stabilize the democratic culture we now enjoy in Nigeria.

He returned Nigeria to her status as a player in global politics through his God-given wisdom. In 1977, he formed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and organised the African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77), set up the Corrupt Practice Bureau; and through his government’s efforts, independence was achieved for Angola and later Zimbabwe. What more can be said about this detribalised Nigerian who frowns at injustice.

Everything about Baba as he is fondly called strikes a chord. The occasion of his birthday has resonated in us, the need for nationalism, patriotism, global service and the courage to take tough decisions in the interest of our great nation.

He is a leading example of commitments, patriotism, sacrifice and courage, virtues young Nigerians must imbibe.

Posterity will not forget his innumerable efforts.

Twice he has handed over to a civilian administration.

He did it in 1979 after serving as a military Head of State, and when he returned to power in 1999 through a well conducted election.

He outstandingly negotiated a debt relief for the country because of his credibility. When he left office in 2007, the economy had grown from 3% to 7% GDP, a feat many have described as rare.

Finally, the Congress charges the leadership to learn from the man Obasanjo, who in the face of adversity has triumphed and still standing by God’s grace.

Nigeria can be great again if the leaders are willing to make sacrifices like this great leader has done.

Happy birthday, Baba.

Congratulations!