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Olusegun ObasanjoPresident of Nigeria
Date of Birth: 05.03.1937
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Biography of Olusegun Obasanjo
Early Life and Military CareerOlusegun Obasanjo, a Nigerian politician and statesman, was born on March 5, 1937, in Abeokuta, Nigeria. He received his education at a Baptist school and later worked as a teacher. In 1958, he joined the Nigerian Army and went on to receive military training in the United Kingdom.
Obasanjo gained recognition within the army during the Nigerian Civil War in Biafra (Eastern Nigeria) from 1967 to 1970. He led a decisive operation to capture the leader of the rebellious Ibos, which further solidified his reputation.
Political Career
Obasanjo entered politics in the late 1970s, becoming the deputy to General Murtala Mohammed, who had seized power in Nigeria. After Mohammed's assassination in 1976, Obasanjo assumed the presidency. As part of his plan, elections were held in 1979, in which he did not participate, resulting in the victory of Shehu Shagari.
During the 1980s, Obasanjo engaged in various diplomatic missions in Africa on behalf of the United Nations and the Commonwealth. He was also a candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations. However, in 1995, he was imprisoned on charges of conspiracy to overthrow the government of Sani Abacha.
Presidential Tenure
Obasanjo was released from prison in June 1998 following Abacha's sudden death. Abdul Salami Abubakar, who assumed power after Abacha, promised to hold national elections in early 1999. In October 1998, Obasanjo joined the People's Democratic Party and announced his candidacy for the presidential elections.
In the elections held in February 1999, Obasanjo secured 62.8% of the votes, officially assuming office in May 1999. As president, he pledged to combat political corruption, promote economic growth, and reform the security agencies.
Under Obasanjo's leadership, Nigeria experienced significant economic growth and reforms. He implemented various initiatives to improve governance, tackle corruption, and attract foreign investment. However, his presidency was not without controversy, with critics accusing him of authoritarian tendencies and human rights abuses.
After serving two terms as president, Obasanjo stepped down in 2007, adhering to Nigeria's constitutional term limit. He remains an influential figure in Nigerian politics and continues to engage in international diplomatic efforts and peacekeeping missions.