As the build up to 2023 general elections in Nigeria draw closer, a thought came to my mind for emerging leaders to tap wisdom from the repertoire of knowledge of one of Africa’s greatest leader’s and statesman, former President Olusegun Obasanjo. I shared the idea in a socio-political cum business inclined WhatsApp platform I belong to, christened Duke Summit. The convener of the group activated the idea by reaching out to President Obasanjo aides and the visit came to fruition. I sincerely give kudos to Joseph Edgar for pulling all the strings for the visit, though he refused to acknowledge the architect of the initiative, very Nigerian in character.
The train ride to Abeokuta was very eventful and fun filled for me and I can boldly state that it was the same for others too. I have been to Abeokuta several times, but this particular trip was emotional for me. Everyone around me knows my unflinching affinity towards Baba Obasanjo, the one I refer to as my ‘leader’ based on his patriotic service to my fatherland. If you want to find my trouble, like we say here in this part of the world, just abuse my leader and I would give it to you double. Baba Obasanjo means so many things to Nigeria, for me he represents the best in us, a true nationalist, a pragmatic leader and the best president or head of state since independence. Like every mortal, he has his shortcomings and failings, but one thing is sure he came, he saw, and he conquered, and he has carved his name in immortality.
The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) to me should be a national monument that should be preserved for future generations of Nigerians to study the life of one of Africa’s greatest statesman. The visit to the museum inside the library was one of the high points for me. The museum was a celebration of all President Obasanjo’s contribution to the growth and unity of our dear nation. As you navigate through the museum, the beautiful history of our great nation is narrated by President Obasanjo himself, I went emotional here listening to the man whose leadership style I love so much. This place is a pilgrimage site that I hope everyone gets an opportunity to visit in a lifetime.
Finally, the calibre of Nigerians from all walks of life made this trip exhilarating for me, where would I start?
Prince Femi Tejuosho, a true Egba prince, thank you for your hospitality you really made us enjoy Abeokuta. I owe you one outing in Lagos, I must reciprocate” in equal measure.
Ohimai, my Edo brother, thanks for that OBJ T-shirt, I owe you too.
Goke, great guy, we would do it again.
My LIRS people, Ahmed and Wunmi great people. When I have tax issues make una help me o.
TF, you did great brother.
O’neal, my Itsekiri friend I did enjoy your company.
Nonny! Nonny!! Make I no talk.
Chichi Okigbo, I salute.
My leader with the small L, you made the last night at OOPL great. Please go out and vote in 2023 o.
Moses NANS, you added youthfulness to the trip, that “ya dance steps at the club na waya o”.
Mummy Wa, always there for you since 1900, I help you carry your things comeback to Lagos o.
Austin, my comrade in the struggle, we would get there soon.
Theo Vannessa, I greet o.
All of you made this trip worthwhile for me. I wish you all a prosperous 2022 Year.
Osa!! Out.