Mercy360 Blog of Wednesday, 27 November 2024
Source: Mercy Mensah
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently spoke out about rumors of his death, stating that he's "hale and hearty" despite some people's wishes to the contrary. He made these comments during the inauguration of the Old-Garage/Oke-Fia Road in Osogbo, which was reconstructed by Governor Ademola Adeleke. Obasanjo praised Adeleke's performance and encouraged him to continue his good work.
It's worth noting that Obasanjo has had a long and distinguished career in Nigerian politics and military. Born on March 5, 1937, he served as Nigeria's head of state from 1976 to 1979 and later as president from 1999 to 2007 .
Olusegun Obasanjo is a Nigerian general and statesman who has played a significant role in the country's history. Born on March 5, 1937, in Ibogun-Olaogun, a village in southwest Nigeria, Obasanjo was raised in a farming family and was the first of nine children to survive childhood .
Obasanjo's education was largely in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and he later joined the Nigerian Army, specializing in engineering. He was assigned to various locations, including the Congo, Britain, and India, rising to the rank of major .
During the Nigerian Civil War, Obasanjo played a senior role in combating Biafran separatists. He was appointed the rear commander of Murtala Muhammed's Second Division and later became the commander of the Third Marine Commando Division, leading the final assault on Biafra .
After the war, Obasanjo continued to rise through the ranks, becoming the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, in 1975. He was a key player in the coup that ousted General Yakubu Gowon and was part of the triumvirate that ruled Nigeria until 1976 .
Obasanjo's presidency, which spanned from 1999 to 2007, was marked by significant reforms, including the establishment of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He also played a key role in the formation of the African Union and served as its chair from 2004 to 2006 .
Throughout his career, Obasanjo has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of the Federal Republic, Nigeria's highest honor. He has also written several books, including his memoirs, "My Command"..