Tinubu to Osoba on birthday: Our journey together has weathered its storms

President Bola Tinubu has extended birthday wishes to former Ogun State Governor and veteran journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba, celebrating a decades-long relationship marked by shared ideals and weathered storms. In a tribute, Tinubu described Osoba as a "brother in purpose," noting that while their shared vision for Nigeria has always been clear, achieving it has often been difficult.

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I have known Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba for so many years that we could easily write a book about one another. His hearty laughter when sharing a joke, his stern expression when focused, and his depth in moments of decision are all familiar to me. Behind the titles, the pen, and the politics, stands a man whose first instinct is always to serve.

Tinubu recalled their entry into public life from different paths, converging on the belief that Nigeria could be governed with competence and respect for institutions, ultimately leading to a better life for its citizens. He reminisced about challenging campaigns, late-night strategy sessions, and early mornings facing the press, all fueled by a determination to speak truth, even when inconvenient. The president emphasized their mutual belief in effective federalism, a responsible free press, and accessible leadership.

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We entered public life from different doorways, but we found ourselves in the same house: the house of an idea – that Nigeria could be governed with competence, respect for institutions, and an unyielding belief that our people deserve better.

Highlighting Osoba's consistent embodiment of these ideals, first as a journalist and later as a politician, Tinubu noted his respectful treatment of young reporters and his focus on the human angle in news stories. He recalled how, amidst political strategy discussions, Osoba would ground conversations by remembering ordinary citizens like newspaper vendors and teachers.

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Our shared ideals have never been complicated, though living them has not always been easy. We believe in federalism that works, a press that is free but responsible and in leaders who remain accessible, not because of photo opportunities, but because they remember what it was like before the convoys.

President Tinubu acknowledged the "storms" their shared journey has endured, describing Osoba's calm demeanor as an anchor during uncertain times. He praised Osoba's ability to share historical anecdotes, particularly about the old Western Region and Chief Obafemi Awolowo, which provided perspective and reminded them of their place in a larger narrative. Tinubu expressed admiration for Osoba's consistency in both public and private life, valuing his personal courtesies and principled disagreements.

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Our journey together has weathered its storms. There were times when the path was unclear, and the cost of staying the course felt high.