President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing birthday tribute to elder statesman and former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba, describing him as “a brother in purpose” whose life has been defined by service, integrity and an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s democratic ideals.
In a heartfelt message released on Tuesday to commemorate Osoba’s birthday, the President reflected on their decades-long friendship and political partnership, saying their shared vision for a better Nigeria had sustained them through difficult moments in public service.
“I have known Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba for so many years that we could easily write a book about one another,” Tinubu said.
“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.”
The President noted that although they entered public life through different paths, they were united by a common belief that Nigeria could be governed with competence, respect for institutions and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
He recalled years of working alongside Osoba during political campaigns, strategy meetings and engagements with the media, saying those experiences strengthened their shared conviction about responsible leadership.
According to the President, Osoba consistently championed democratic values, including true federalism, a free but responsible press and leadership that remains connected to ordinary Nigerians.
Tinubu praised the former governor’s mentorship of younger journalists, recalling how Osoba always encouraged them to look beyond headlines and focus 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. He would take a bad headline, mark it in red, and then ask, ‘But what is the human angle here? Who is affected?’”
He also described Osoba as a calming influence during challenging political periods, saying his reflections on history often helped colleagues maintain perspective.
“Chief Osoba’s calm demeanour was an anchor,” Tinubu said.
“He has a gift for sharing historical anecdotes about the great Chief Awolowo, the old Western Region, and a mistake made and learned from. Those anecdotes turn panic into perspective.”
The President further commended Osoba for his consistency in both public and private life, saying the veteran journalist and politician remained courteous, principled and respectful even during disagreements.
“What I admire most in Aremo is his consistency. In public and in private, he is the same man,” Tinubu wrote.
“He will firmly disagree with you, then walk with you to your car, because the argument is about the work and its outcome, not about the person.”
Offering prayers for the celebrant, Tinubu said he was not wishing Osoba additional honours, noting that he had already earned enough recognition over a lifetime of service.
Instead, the President prayed for good health and the fulfilment of the ideals they had both worked to promote.
“On his birthday, I do not wish him more, for he has earned enough honours for several lifetimes. I wish him health and more mornings to enjoy his tea and read the newspapers.”
He added: “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.”
Concluding the tribute, Tinubu thanked the former Ogun governor for his friendship, guidance and steadfast commitment to principled leadership.
“Aremo, thank you for being a brother in purpose. Thank you for the counsel, your laughter, and for the reminder that leadership without character is worthless.
“May your new year bring you peace, and may we continue the work together.”