Team Details

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is a significant figure in Nigerian and African politics, having served as both a military ruler and a democratically elected president of Nigeria. Born on March 5, 1937, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, Obasanjo has had a long and impactful career in public service, military, and international diplomacy.

Obasanjo first came to prominence as a military leader. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1958 and quickly rose through the ranks. He played a crucial role during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), leading the army’s Third Marine Commando Division to victory. In 1976, following the assassination of then Head of State General Murtala Mohammed, Obasanjo became Nigeria’s military head of state. He is noted for handing over power to a civilian government in 1979, which was a rare occurrence for military leaders at the time and set a precedent for democratic transition in Nigeria.

Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria and Africa have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards and honors, including international accolades for his work in promoting peace and development. Despite facing controversies and criticism during his career, Obasanjo remains a towering figure in Nigerian history and a respected elder statesman.