Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has dismissed rumours of his death, declaring at 89 that he remains strong and has no intention of leaving “anytime soon.”
Speaking on Wednesday in Abeokuta during a colloquium marking his 89th birthday, Obasanjo condemned the circulation of a fake letter suggesting he was announcing his own death. He described those behind it as mischief-makers, insisting that God still has work for him to accomplish.
Born on March 6, 1937, the former leader said he believes his continued life and good health are divinely ordained. He maintained that he would remain active for as long as God permits.
In his lecture titled “Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Global Africa to the World,” Obasanjo reflected on Africa’s leadership challenges, blaming the continent’s slow development on failure of leadership rather than geography or history. According to him, Africa’s abundant natural and human resources should ordinarily position it for prosperity, peace and global relevance.
He criticised leaders who prioritise personal and family interests over national development, undermine institutions and silence dissent. Obasanjo urged investment in leadership formation rooted in integrity, accountability and service.
Drawing from personal experience, he spoke about the weight of leadership decisions, including commanding troops during the Nigerian Civil War and governing Nigeria between 1999 and 2007. He also recalled his imprisonment under the late Head of State, Sani Abacha, describing it as one of the heavy costs of principled leadership.
Despite the burdens, Obasanjo highlighted achievements such as Nigeria’s Paris Club debt relief and the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as part of leadership’s rewards.
Reaffirming his vitality, he said, “God has assured me He still has more for me to do. I remain strong and well.”
