President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to prioritize unity and peaceful coexistence in the country, emphasizing this message during the public presentation of a book in honor of elder statesman Chief Olusegun Osoba, who marks his 85th birthday. The event, held in Lagos State, South-West Nigeria, celebrated Chief Osoba’s remarkable contributions to journalism and democracy in Nigeria.
In his address, President Tinubu highlighted Chief Osoba’s steadfast commitment to Nigeria’s unity amidst current challenges. He praised Chief Osoba’s recent memoir, “My Life in the Public Eye,” as a testament to his enduring legacy and a valuable resource for future leaders.
Acknowledging the difficulties faced by Nigerians, President Tinubu reassured the nation of his administration’s efforts to address food shortages and other pressing issues. He outlined measures to boost local food production while temporarily removing tariffs on imported grains and other essential food items.
Reflecting on Chief Osoba’s illustrious career, President Tinubu commended his pivotal role in journalism and politics, noting his tenure as Governor of Ogun State and his leadership in the struggle for democracy through NADECO.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and other dignitaries at the event echoed similar sentiments, praising Chief Osoba’s contributions to democracy and journalism. They called for support for President Tinubu’s initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described Chief Osoba as a towering figure whose contributions to public service and journalism have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s development. He emphasized Chief Osoba’s vision for education, human capital development, and healthcare, urging Nigerians to celebrate their leaders while they are still alive.
The event also featured goodwill messages from prominent figures including former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and business moguls Mike Adenuga and Aliko Dangote, who hailed Chief Osoba’s exemplary qualities and wished him continued success and good health.
In conclusion, President Tinubu encouraged leaders to follow Chief Osoba’s example by documenting their experiences and providing guidance for future generations, underscoring the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving national progress.