Senate President Ahmad Lawan and former Senate President David Mark, on Sunday, eulogised former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 85th birthday.
Lawan in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Ola Awoniyi, in Abuja, said he joined family members, friends and well-wishers in rejoicing with the elder statesman on the auspicious occasion.
“I heartily felicitate former President Obasanjo as he continues his strong march in his remarkable journey of life.
“President Obasanjo is a true Nigerian patriot, pan-Africanist and global figure who has made great contributions to the political development of Nigeria and the emancipation of Africa.
“President Obasanjo is a consistent protagonist of the Nigerian project. Even now as an elder statesman, he has continued to push for Nigeria to realise her huge potentials as a great nation.
“This is to be expected, as his name is linked to some of the greatest events and developments in the Nigerian history.
“I therefore heartily join Nigerians across the country in celebrating this unique figure as he crosses the milestone of 85 years.
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Mark, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Mumeh in Abuja, described Obasanjo as a patriotic African leader who is passionate about the peace, unity and development of the continent.
He noted that Obasanjo is an uncommon leader who believes in the sanctity of a united Nigeria and Africa at large.
He said: “Both as a Military Head-of-State and as civilian President, Obasanjo left no one in doubt of his political will to uphold the sanctity of our unity as one indivisible Nigeria.
“His frontline role in the battle that ended the 30 months old Nigeria/ Biafra fratricidal war remains a reference point in the history and evolution of Nigeria.”
The former Senate helmsman praised Obasanjo for his untiring efforts in ensuring peace in Nigeria and Africa pointing out that “his indomitable spirit is inspiring and reassuring.“
He urged new generation of leaders to emulate the virtues of Obasanjo because “his kind is what we need to make the nation peaceful, united and to uphold our bond of brotherhood.”
Mark enjoined Obasanjo to continue to make his reservoir of knowledge and wealth of experience available to the younger generation to tap from.
He prayed that God in His infinite mercies continue to grant Obasanjo good health, wisdom and courage in the years ahead.