Akinwumi Adesina has paid tribute to former Nigerian leader Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, describing him as a courageous statesman whose voice continues to shape public discourse in Nigeria and across Africa.
Adesina, president of the African Development Bank Group, said Obasanjo remains a bridge across generations and a leader whose influence extends beyond national borders.
“Today, we celebrate a man who walks across generations like a bridge between time and destiny — a leader whose credibility is unquestioned and whose respect knows no borders,” Adesina said in a birthday message released on Thursday.
He described the former president as a man of wisdom and courage who has consistently spoken his mind on national and continental issues, often challenging leaders and institutions.
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“In the public square he cannot be silenced. He does not merely ruffle feathers — he pulls them out, speaking truths that others may hesitate to say,” Adesina said.
Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1976 to 1979 and later as a democratically elected president from 1999 to 2007, remains one of Africa’s most prominent elder statesmen.
Since leaving office, he has remained active in diplomacy, governance advocacy and peace initiatives across Africa, frequently weighing in on issues ranging from leadership and democracy to economic reforms and regional stability.
Adesina noted that Obasanjo’s legacy lies not only in the offices he held but also in the courage with which he has continued to engage in debates on Africa’s future.
“President Obasanjo continues to stand boldly in the marketplace of ideas, speaking truth with conviction and urging leaders to rise to the responsibilities of leadership,” he said.
The tribute adds to a stream of congratulatory messages from political leaders, diplomats and public figures marking the former president’s 89th birthday.
