Jonathan Praises OBJ At 76

President  Goodluck Jonathan has described Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as a true father and elder statesman, reassuring him of continuous sharing in his joy as he celebrates his 76th birthday today.

President Jonathan who was represented by his Chief Staff, Chief Mike  Oghiadome, stated this today at the International Conference Centre, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Oke Mosa, Abeokuta during the 76th birthday celebration of the former president.

Jonathan said: “Today we’re celebrating a true Nigerian, an advocate of peace, a man also who introduced reform to social and political life when he was beckoned to save this country, when the opportunity came in 1999 to govern the country again. We cannot but celebrate this great man as we’re doing today.”

Jonathan had earlier in a statement said: “On behalf of my family, the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I write to express warm felicitations to you on the occasion of your 76th birthday anniversary which comes up on Tuesday, March 5th, 2013.

“Over the years, you have always readily given of yourself to the cause of the peace, stability, growth, and development of our country, Nigeria.  For this, we owe you an enduring debt of gratitude.  As you celebrate with family, friends and well-wishers I pray that Almighty God continues to guide, guard, and prosper you, even as He blesses you with many more years of robust health and abiding fulfillment.”

Also speaking earlier, the co-chairman of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Carl Masters said the programme put together to celebrate Baba was a five-day programme which began on Friday last week with a wide ranging activity.

“It is interesting to note that Obasanjo is 76 years today and he is still physically fit,” Masters said. Part of the programme was the launch of a book titled The Presidential Legacy – 1999 To 2007, in honour of Obasanjo.

The book was co-edited by Prof. Oladipo Akinkugbe and Alhaji Ahmed Joda.

The book was reviewed by the former governor of Cross River state, Donald Duke.

—Abiodun Onafuye/Abeokuta