Osoba, a nationalist – Tinubu

 

● His commitment to rural development is unprecedented, says Governor Abiodun

President Bola Tinubu has described former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, as a distinguished Nigerian who was always concerned about the unity of Nigeria and its development.

President Tinubu stated this during the public launch of the book “My Life In the Public Eye”, on the occasion of Chief Osoba’s 85th birthday, held at Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The President, represented by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, revealed the key roles played by Chief Osoba as a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in ensuring the country’s return to democratic governance.

President Tinubu recalled the celebrant’s efforts in co-founding the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the renowned journalist is always interested in discussing issues that have a positive impact for Nigeria and Nigerians.

While stressing that Chief Osoba’s life would be a source of inspiration to the youth, the President called on other Nigerians with vast experience to cherish it for its prosperity.

He acknowledged the current economic situation in the country, but stressed that his administration is working to address food shortages, as well as calling on Nigerians to grow what they need to eat.

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, commended the author for putting together the book for the benefit of the next generation, adding that Chief Osoba is a great nationalist whose contribution to national development is unparalleled.

In his speech, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, recalling the exploits of Chief Osoba in journalism, said that when he was a young reporter covering the 1966 civil war, he discovered the bodies of the late Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa and the Finance Minister, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh.

He said that during his tenure as Governor of Gateway State, Aremo Osoba demonstrated unwavering dedication, integrity and deep commitment to public service, adding that he contributed to the development, stability and progress of Nigeria and Ogun State.

“During his government leadership, Chief Olusegun Osoba faced challenges with vision 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 the landscape of our state.

“Chief Osoba’s exceptional determination and penchant for rural development is unprecedented in the history of our state as he changed the narrative of rural-urban migration during his tenure as governor, bringing development to these communities,” Prince Abiodun added.

The occasion, the governor noted, represents the ideals embodied by the celebrant, including good governance that ensures freedom, fairness, inclusiveness, equity and justice, making life more abundant and prosperous for the people of Ogun State.

The Secretary to the Federal Government, Sen. George Akume, has commended Aremo Osoba as a celebratory and highly intelligent man, noting that his views on national and political issues are always convincing, even as he appreciated him for putting his experience in public service in writing.

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Femi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Chief Osoba is a prolific writer and passionate about the development of the country, and called on future journalists not to de-market the nation, but to write and comment on issues that would be useful to the people.

In his goodwill message, former Commonwealth Secretary, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, described Chief Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped transform the Daily Times of Nigeria into one of the best newspapers in the country.

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