Obasanjo’s Reflections on Leadership
“I’ve seen what one well-formed leader can do,” stated Olusegun Obasanjo during a gathering in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he celebrated his 89th birthday on March 5, 2026. This remark encapsulates his long-standing belief that effective leadership is crucial for the development of African nations.
Obasanjo, who has dedicated over five decades to public life, founded the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI) to foster leadership skills among emerging leaders. His commitment to addressing leadership challenges in Africa has been a cornerstone of his post-presidential endeavors, which include active participation in diplomacy, governance advocacy, and peace initiatives across the continent.
The event also highlighted the political aspirations of his daughter, Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, who is gearing up for the 2027 governorship race in Ogun State. Having previously served as a senator representing Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011, Iyabo has recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC). “I am a formidable person to beat because of my track record, and so I am going to go for it,” she declared, signaling her determination to make a significant impact in the state’s political landscape.
Obasanjo-Bello’s move to the APC comes at a time when the party has maintained control of the Ogun State governorship for 15 years. Her candidacy is particularly noteworthy as no woman has ever been elected governor of Ogun State, marking a potential shift in the political dynamics of the region.
During the birthday celebration, Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, praised Obasanjo as a “courageous statesman” and remarked, “Today, we celebrate a man who walks across generations like a bridge between time and destiny.” This acknowledgment reflects Obasanjo’s enduring influence in African politics and his role as a mentor to many leaders.
Adesina further emphasized Obasanjo’s resilience, stating, “In the public square he cannot be silenced,” underscoring the former president’s continued relevance in discussions about Africa’s future. Obasanjo’s legacy includes his engagement in debates on governance and development, which remain critical as the continent faces various challenges.
As Obasanjo continues to advocate for effective leadership and governance reforms, the political landscape in Ogun State is poised for change with Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello’s candidacy. The coming months will reveal how these developments unfold and whether they will lead to a significant shift in the state’s governance.