Lagos, Nigeria – Prominent African leaders, business magnates, and traditional rulers converged at the prestigious The Delborough Lagos in Victoria Island on Sunday, March 2, 2025, to honor the life and legacy of former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, ahead of his 88th birthday on March 5. The surprise birthday dinner, organized by Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, CEO of The Delborough Lagos brand, brought together a distinguished gathering of dignitaries to celebrate the iconic statesman.
Among the notable attendees were former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Mrs. Patience Jonathan; former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf; former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma; former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar; and former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki. Serving and former state governors, including Prof. Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Alex Otti of Abia State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State, and ex-Governor Donald Duke of Cross River State, were also present.
The event also attracted high-profile business and traditional leaders such as Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mr. Tony Elumelu, Mr. Alex Onyema, Mr. and Mrs. Gbenga Oyebode, Mr. Kola Karim, and several revered monarchs, including His Royal Highness Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Oni of Ife, and HRM Oba Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu. Other distinguished guests included Chief Rasaq Okoya, Chief Dele Momodu, and a host of other influential personalities from across Africa.
In their remarks, former Presidents Jonathan, Sirleaf, and Koroma lauded Chief Obasanjo for his exceptional leadership at both the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU). They praised his contributions to peace, stability, and development on the continent and wished him long life and good health.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who served under Obasanjo’s administration, credited his political and governance successes to his former boss. He expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s mentorship and wished him continued strength to serve Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
In his response, Chief Obasanjo expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, his daughter Funke Obasanjo, and all the dignitaries who attended the event. He also apologized to those who could not gain access to the venue due to the overwhelming turnout, thanking everyone for their love and support.
The event underscored Chief Obasanjo’s enduring influence and the high esteem in which he is held across Africa. As he approaches his 88th birthday, the celebration served as a testament to his remarkable contributions to Nigeria and the continent, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations.