Obasanjo reaffirms unwavering optimism for Nigeria’s future at 88th birthday celebration

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his steadfast belief in Nigeria’s potential, declaring himself “incurably optimistic” about the country’s future, despite its current challenges.

Speaking at his 88th birthday celebration at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the elder statesman reaffirmed his hope for positive change within his lifetime.

Obasanjo, while responding to tributes from dignitaries present at the event, acknowledged the difficult state of the nation but remained hopeful. “Yes, the situation is bad, no doubt, but I believe that in my lifetime, we will have a Nigeria that we will all be proud of,” he said.

Grateful for the goodwill messages from attendees, Obasanjo offered prayers for long life to his well-wishers.

“To those who have reached 80, may you attain 90 and 100, and I will be there to celebrate with you. For those who are yet to reach 80, by God’s grace, you will,” he remarked.

However, Obasanjo emphasized that Nigerians have a collective duty to build a better nation. “If we do it right, we will have an enviable Nigeria in our lifetime,” he stated.

A key highlight of the event was the lecture delivered by Professor Osaghae, who stressed the need for a “decolonization of the mind” and called for fresh, united leadership to guide the country toward good governance.

In response, Obasanjo echoed the lecturer’s message, urging Nigerians to confront collective failures and chart a new path forward.

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“The lecturer made a strong point that if we forget our past—whether the Trans-Atlantic or Trans-Saharan slave trade—not only will we continue to suffer from its effects, but we may also find ourselves re-enslaved in new forms,” Obasanjo remarked.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s struggles, Obasanjo called for introspection, urging citizens to critically assess past mistakes and work toward actionable solutions.

“It is for us to see where we have all gone wrong—without exception. If there’s a way out, how do we get there? And what must we do to make it happen?” he asked.

Obasanjo’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, self-reflection, and collective action in the pursuit of a brighter future for Nigeria.