By Olaitan Ibrahim
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reaffirmed his unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential, declaring that despite the country’s challenges, he remains “incurably optimistic” that positive change will come within his lifetime.
Speaking at his 88th birthday celebration held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the elder statesman expressed hope for a better Nigeria while responding to tributes from dignitaries who graced the occasion.
“For me, I am an incurable optimist about Nigeria. Yes, the situation is bad, no doubt, but I believe that in my lifetime, we will have a Nigeria that we will all be proud of,” Obasanjo said.
Expressing gratitude for the goodwill messages, he prayed for longevity for his well-wishers.
“To those who have reached 80, may you attain 90 and 100, and I will be there to celebrate with you. Those who are yet to reach 80, by God’s grace, you will.
“But let us remember that as Nigerians, we have an obligation to build the nation. If we do it right, we will have an enviable Nigeria in our lifetime,” he said.
Obasanjo also reacted to a lecture delivered at the event by Professor Osaghae, who emphasized the need for a “decolonization of the mind” and a fresh, united leadership to steer the country toward good governance.
According to Obasanjo, the message was clear: Nigerians must recognize collective failures and chart a new course.
“The lecturer made a strong point that if we forget our past—whether the Trans-Atlantic or Trans-Saharan slave trade—not only will we continue to suffer from its effects, but we may also find ourselves re-enslaved in new forms,” he remarked.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s struggles, he urged citizens to critically assess past missteps and seek actionable solutions.
“It is for us to see where we have all gone wrong—without exception. If there’s a way out, how do we get there? And what must we do to make it happen?” he asked.