News
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.
The Chairman of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Torseer Yina, has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the ancient town.
The curfew takes effect from Thursday, October 8, 2026, following unrest and violent protests in the area.
According to reports, the action was taken to contain the unrest and violent protests by members of BEMOA following the death of one of its members by unknown gunmen.
The protest, which was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums, turned violent after an angry mob burnt two vehicles belonging to the Benue State Civil Protection Guards.
The Gboko council chairman said the curfew takes effect immediately and warned that anyone caught flouting the order or breaching public peace would be decisively dealt with.
Nine people have died in a fatal road crash along the Ijebu-Ode-Benin Expressway in Ogun State.
The crash occurred on Monday at about 4:55pm around the Bethel area along the Ijebu-Ode/Ore axis of the expressway. It involved a white Toyota Hiace commercial bus belonging to Delta Line and a white Sino truck operated by Bill Gas Solution Ltd.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), all nine people involved in the crash, comprising three males and six females, died in the incident.
The FRSC said the crash occurred while it was raining and the road was wet, with preliminary investigations identifying speed violation as the probable cause.
The FRSC rescue team arrived at the scene shortly after receiving the report, while the bodies of the victims were taken to the General Hospital Morgue in Ijebu-Ode.
The Ogun State Sector Commander, Oludare Ogunjobi, urged motorists, especially commercial drivers, to obey speed limits and exercise extra caution when driving in the rain.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, speaks on the role and importance of teachers in the world to celebrate Teachers’ Day today.
He spoke on technology and its advancement and shared that while it is going well, teachers can never be replaced.
“These tools can help teachers reach learners and tailor instruction, but the judgement, encouragement and human connection of a skilled teacher remain indispensable,” he said.
“Every doctor, engineer, scientist, entrepreneur and public servant has benefited from a teacher and could not have become what they are today without teachers,” the minister said.
“When we honour teachers, we honour the people who make every other profession possible.”
Walid Acherchour Backs Lamine Yamal to Win 2026 Ballon d’Or
Zlatan Announces Wedding Date With Longtime Partner Davita
