By Gloria Ikibah
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, describing him as a respected elder statesman whose voice continues to carry weight both within Nigeria and across the world.
In a goodwill message marking the milestone, the Speaker said, “Former President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo remains one of the leaders Nigerians still consult on national issues because of the depth of his experience drawn from decades of military service and political leadership.” 
He noted that Obasanjo holds a unique place in the country’s history, having led Nigeria both as a military Head of State and later as a democratically elected president.
According to the Speaker, “Chief Obasanjo is the first of only two Nigerians—before the late former President Muhammadu Buhari—to have had the rare privilege of serving the nation as military Head of State and also as a democratically elected president.”
Abbas expressed gratitude for the former leader’s years of service to the country and acknowledged the continued guidance he offers to Nigeria’s political leadership.
He said, “We appreciate his immense contributions to the development of Nigeria and the wise counsel he continues to offer to the current political class.”
The Speaker also praised Obasanjo’s international reputation, particularly his role in promoting peace, democracy and stability across Africa.
He added, “Chief Obasanjo has remained a worthy global ambassador for Nigeria, especially through his commitment to peacekeeping and democratic interventions across Africa and beyond.”
Abbas prayed for the former president’s continued good health and long life, noting that Nigeria and the African continent still benefit from his fatherly presence and leadership.
“We pray that Almighty God grants him more years in good health so he can continue to play his fatherly role in Nigeria and across the African continent”, Abbas added.
