By Uche Amunike
President Bola Tinubu has commended the former Governor of Ogun state, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, as he turned 85 years of age for the role he played towards the national development of the country.
Speaking, during the public launch of the book, ‘My Life in the Public Eye’, which was published to mark Osoba’s 85th birthday at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island Lagos, Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who listed the roles played by Aremo Olusegun Osoba in ensuring that Nigeria returned to democratic rule, when he was a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
Tinubu recalled the efforts of Chief Osoba in conforming the APC, as he was always interested in discussing issues with positive impact on Nigeria and Nigerians.
He stated that Chief Osoba’s life would remain a source of inspiration to the young ones and other Nigerians with a wealth of experience, while asking them to note them down for posterity.
According to him, the current economic situation in the country was not favorable to Nigerians, but his administration is doing everything possible to address food shortages. He also advised Nigerians to grow what they eat.
On his part, Nigerian Senate President, Godswill Akpabio hailed the author for putting together such a book that will benefit the next generation. He also described Osoba as a great nationalist, whose contribution to national development is unquantified.
Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun also spoke highly of the octogenarian. He explained that during his tenure as governor of Ogun State, Osoba showed unflinching dedication, a profound commitment to public service and integrity. He also said that he contributed greatly to the development, progress and stability of Nigeria and Ogun State.
His words: ‘Throughout his leadership governance, Chief Olusegun Osoba navigated challenges with foresight and determination, laying the foundation for the socio-economic growth we enjoy today. His visionary policies in education, healthcare, rural electrification, infrastructure, and agriculture have left an indelible mark on our state’s landscape.’
‘Chief Osoba’s exceptional drive and penchant for rural development are unprecedented in the history of our state, as he changed the narrative of rural-urban migration during his tenure as Governor by taking development to these communities.’
He noted that the book launch and birthday celebration represented the ideals that Osoba personified, which include good governance that guaranteed freedom, inclusiveness, equity, justice, as well as fairness, thereby making life, more prosperous for the people of the state.
Former secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, through a goodwill message, described Olusegun Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped to shape the Daily Times of Nigeria into one of the best newspapers in the country.
Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also congratulated Osoba on his birthday as he described him as a democrat, respected politician and accomplished journalist who has written his name in gold in the history of the country.
He released a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, where he described Osoba as an epitome of honesty, dedication and service.
The statement partly read: ‘The governor, on behalf of his family, the government and the people of Lagos State, felicitates with the APC chieftain on his 85th birthday. The Governor prays to God to grant Aremo Osoba good health to enable him to render more service to humanity, his community, state and Nigeria at large.’
