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Peter Obi Celebrates Obasanjo at 88 and Praises His Impact in Nigeria
Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has celebrated Nigeria’s former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, on his 88th birthday.
Obi, in a heartfelt message shared on his X handle, described Obasanjo as a revered elder statesman and father figure whose contributions to Nigeria’s progress remain immense.
The former president, who governed Nigeria first as a military head of state from 1976 to 1979 and later as a democratically elected leader from 1999 to 2007, is widely recognized for major economic and political reforms that shaped the country.
Also, Obi mentioned some of Obasanjo’s achievements during his civilian presidency, noting how Nigeria’s economy grew significantly under his leadership.
According to Obi, when Obasanjo assumed office in 1999, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) stood at about $59 billion, with a per capita income of around $490, while the country’s foreign debt was approximately $32 billion.
However, by the time he left office in 2007, GDP had risen to $278 billion, per capita income had surged to $1,800, and foreign debt had been drastically reduced to $3.2 billion.
The country’s foreign reserves also saw a major boost, positioning Nigeria as a stronger economic player in Africa.
Obasanjo’s tenure was marked by various policies aimed at economic stabilization and debt relief. One of his most significant achievements was securing a deal with the Paris Club, which led to Nigeria’s debt cancellation, reducing the country’s financial burden.
His administration also introduced reforms in telecommunications, banking, and the oil sector, leading to increased foreign investment and economic expansion.
Beyond economics, Obi praised Obasanjo’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress, stating that his sacrifices for a better Nigeria and Africa remain remarkable.
The former president has remained active in national and international affairs even after leaving office, often offering advice on governance, democracy, and peacebuilding across the continent.
Concluding his message, Obi wished the former president more healthy, fruitful, and happy years ahead, praying for God’s continued blessings upon his life.
Lagos State Police react to claims of them taking money from dispatch riders on the Coastal Road in Lagos.
It started after a rumour was shared that police arrest and take money from riders as a demand for high bribes, sometimes reaching ₦200,000, and seize motorcycles if not given.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, then addressed the claims online and stated in his statement that he disagreed that the rumour is true and stated, “The spread of misinformation only causes more harm than good. In this era, we can and must do better.”
It has been announced by the governor of Ogun that Tuesday 3rd of February is a public holiday in order to mark the 50th anniversary of the state creation.
This public holiday declaration was released in a statement by the secretary of the state, Tokunbo Talabi.
He then added that the holiday will provide as a day for the citizens to participate in the activities for the state milestone.
Former Kogi politician, Dino Melaye, faces backlash from the public after he shared a video on social media of him abroad and living well through his luxurious lifestyle.
In the same video, he speaks about Nigeria’s current economy and shares his disappointment.
He wrote, “See country, God help us to build a true nation where our wicked leaders will be in jail and the right people in power. Nigeria must be fixed. YES WE CAN.”
However, many state that what he posted and what he is saying contradict each other, and they accused him of sharing his own records to know if he was a corrupt leader.
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