By Emmanuel Mogbede
The All Progressives Congress (APC), has said that the legacy of former President Olusegun Obasanjo had continued to inspire good governance on the African continent after so many years.
Malam Bolaji Abudullahi, APC National Publicity Secretary, stated this in a statement on Monday in Abuja while celebrating the former president on his 81st birthday.
He also said that the former president remained an influential voice in different facets of national life.
“Our party joins family, friends, well-wishers and associates in celebrating the retired general, who has emerged as a bastion of democracy, good governance and development in Nigeria and beyond.
“Chief Obasanjo has inspired a generation of Nigerians, notably in the areas of entrepreneurship, leadership and education, especially through his non-profit initiatives, the Africa Leadership Forum (ALF) and the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library,” he said.
He also said that as a true Nigerian patriot and statesman, Obasanjo had over the years built solid bridges across political divides in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.
Abudullahi prayed God to enable Obasanjo age in health and wisdom, so that he could continue to contribute to the unending task of nation building.
In his own tribute, immediate past President of the Senate, Senator David Mark showered encomiums on Chief Obasanjo describing him as an uncommon patriot who put the interest of the nation first in all he does.
Senator Mark said that Obasanjo is the father of modern day Nigeria who has stood firm against all odds to keep the nation one.
According to him, “No one is in doubt that Chief Obasanjo has demonstrated steadfastness, uncommon commitment and faith in the Nigerian project. All of us owe him that respect and honour”.
Senator Mark added that Obasanjo even after leaving office has continued to champion the cause of a united Nigeria saying that it takes a good conscience and love for fatherland to do so.
He prayed that God in His infinite mercies continue to grant Obasanjo good health, wisdom and courage in the years ahead.
He however urged Obasanjo to continue to make his wealth of experience and knowledge especially in leadership available for the younger generation of leaders to tap from.
He urged Nigerians to emulate the indomitable spirit of Obasanjo in order to faithfully serve the nation, for the good of all.
