Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has called on Nigerians to study the life and legacy of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, describing him as a model of purposeful living, discipline, and continued relevance.
In a statement shared on Sunday via his X (formerly Twitter) account, titled “If You Want To Thrive And Feel More Alive, Do Yourself a Favour and Study Chief Obasanjo,” Omokri highlighted key traits that he believes have kept Obasanjo active and influential well into his late 80s.
“What has kept President Obasanjo alive long after many of his peers have passed on?” Omokri asked. “Beyond God-given health, it is his sense of purpose. He is committed to Nigeria and remains mentally and physically active through constant travel and daily exercise.”
According to Omokri, Obasanjo’s engagement in national and continental affairs, even without official titles, sets him apart.
“He sees himself — rightly or wrongly — as a father of modern Nigeria and a pillar of Africa. He steps in when he sees potential danger and offers solutions, often uninvited. This keeps his mind sharp and his body energized.”
Omokri noted Obasanjo’s routine, including his dedication to squash and frequent travels, as evidence of a life lived with intent and vitality.
Obasanjo, 88, served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1976 to 1979 and as a democratically elected President from 1999 to 2007. He is also a prolific author, with works such as Not My Will, This Animal Called Man, Nzeogwu, Democracy Works, and Africa in Perspective.
Omokri praised these writings for maintaining Obasanjo’s intellectual sharpness and called for his books to be introduced into Nigeria’s school curriculum.
“Obasanjo’s books should be required reading in all Nigerian schools from secondary level upward. His life and work offer immense value to the younger generation,” Omokri stated.
While acknowledging that the former president has flaws — including what he described as an “outsized ego” — Omokri argued that Obasanjo’s positive contributions far outweigh any personal shortcomings.
“Many people misunderstand strength, especially in Africa where it’s often equated only with physical power. But true strength lies in the ability to assert your will and remain impactful,” he said.
Omokri encouraged Nigerians to read My Command: An Account of the Nigerian Civil War, Obasanjo’s 1980 book, to better understand the sacrifices he made for the country.
“If you want to understand how much you owe General Obasanjo, start with that book,” he concluded.
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