President Bola Tinubu has described the former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba as a notable Nigerian who is always concerned about the oneness of Nigeria and her development.
Tinubu stated this at the public launch of a book, “My Life In the Public Eye”, to mark Chief Osoba’s 85th birthday held at the Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima disclosed the leading roles Chief Osoba played as a member of the National Democratic Coalition in ensuring that the country returned to democratic rule.
Tinubu recalled the celebrant’s efforts in co-forming the All Progressives Congress, adding that the foremost journalist is always interested in discussing issues with positive impact on Nigeria and Nigerians.
While noting that Chief Osoba’s life would serve as a source of inspiration to the young ones, the President called on other Nigerians with a wealth of experience to pen them down for prosperity.
He acknowledged the current economic situation in the country but emphasised that his administration was working to address food shortages, just as he called on Nigerians to grow what they eat.
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, while speaking at the event, appreciated the author for putting the book together for the benefit of the next generation.
Akpabio said that Chief Osoba is a great nationalist whose contribution to national development is unparalleled.
In his address, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, while recalling the exploits of Chief Osoba in journalism, said as a young reporter covering the 1966 civil war, he discovered the bodies of late Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa and Finance Minister, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh.
He said during his tenure as Governor of the Gateway State, Aremo Osoba exemplified unwavering dedication, integrity, and a profound commitment to public service, adding that he contributed to the development, stability and progress of Nigeria and Ogun State.
“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,” Prince Abiodun added.
The occasion, the governor noted, represented the ideals that the celebrant personifies which include good governance that guarantees freedom, fairness, inclusiveness, equity, and justice, making life more abundant and prosperous for the people of Ogun State.
Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator George Akume, praised Aremo Osoba as a cerebral and highly intelligent man, noting that his views on national and political issues are always cogent, even as he appreciated him for putting his experience in the public service into writing.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Femi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Chief Osoba is a prolific writer who is passionate about the development of the country and called on the upcoming journalists not to de-market the nation but to write and comment on issues that would be of benefit to the people.
In his goodwill message, former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, described Chief Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped in shaping the Daily Times of Nigeria into one of the best newspapers in the country.
