President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, describing him as “a brother in purpose” whose life has been defined by service, integrity and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s democratic ideals.

In a heartfelt birthday message marking Osoba’s 87th birthday, the President reflected on their decades-long friendship and political partnership, saying they had shared a common vision of building a Nigeria governed with competence, respect for institutions and a deep commitment to the welfare of its citizens.

“I have known Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba for so many years that we could easily write a book about one another,” Tinubu said.

He recalled Osoba’s warm personality, describing his hearty laughter, thoughtful disposition and steadfast commitment to public service as qualities that have remained constant over the years.

According to the President, although they entered public life through different paths, they were united by a shared belief that Nigeria could be transformed through principled leadership, strong institutions and accountable governance.

Tinubu said that shared vision sustained them through difficult political campaigns, strategy meetings and public engagements where they remained committed to speaking the truth despite the challenges.

He noted that both men had always believed in true federalism, a free but responsible press and leaders who remain accessible to the people they serve.

The President praised Osoba’s distinguished career as a journalist and politician, recalling how the veteran newspaperman mentored younger reporters by encouraging them to focus not just on headlines but on the human impact of every story.

“I watched how he treated young reporters — never with condescension, always with a correction and a story to go with it,” Tinubu said.

He added that even during political strategy sessions, Osoba consistently reminded colleagues to consider the ordinary Nigerian, citing examples of newspaper vendors in Lagos and classroom teachers in Ijebu-Ode as the people whose interests should remain central to governance.

Reflecting on the challenges they had faced together, Tinubu described Osoba as a stabilising force whose calm disposition and wealth of historical knowledge often provided perspective during difficult moments.

He said Osoba frequently drew lessons from the life of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the old Western Region and past political experiences to remind colleagues that while leaders may not get everything right immediately, they must never compromise on what truly matters.

The President also commended Osoba’s consistency, saying he remained the same person in both public and private life.

According to him, the former governor always placed courtesy and relationships above politics, taking time to inquire about the wellbeing of others, write personal notes and separate disagreements over policy from personal relationships.

On the occasion of Osoba’s birthday, Tinubu prayed for his continued good health and fulfilment, expressing hope that the elder statesman would live to witness the continued realisation of the ideals they had worked together to promote.

“I wish him health and more mornings to enjoy his tea and read the newspapers. I wish him the joy of seeing the ideas we nurtured together take deeper root — schools that work, roads that last, and a government that answers to its people,” the President said.

Tinubu concluded the tribute by thanking Osoba for his friendship, wise counsel and exemplary leadership, saying his life remained a reminder that “leadership without character is worthless.”

He also expressed hope that they would continue working together in the service of Nigeria.