Ex-Presidents Jonathan, Sirleaf, Koroma, Others Storm ‘The Delborough Lagos’ for OBJ’s 88th Birthday
An impressive gathering of African leaders came together on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at ‘The Delborough Lagos’ in Victoria Island, Lagos, to celebrate the life and legacy of Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, ahead of his 88th birthday on March 5.
The surprise birthday dinner was hosted by Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, CEO of the ‘The Delborough Lagos’ hospitality brand, and attended by several high-profile figures.
Notable former African leaders at the event included former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience Jonathan; former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf; former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma; former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar; and former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, alongside their spouses.
State governors present included Prof. Charles Soludo of Anambra, Peter Mbah of Enugu, Alex Otti of Abia, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau, and ex-governor Donald Duke of Cross River State.
Other prominent personalities in attendance were influential business and traditional leaders such as Alhaji Aliku Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Alex Onyema, and Gbenga Oyebode. Notable royals included His Royal Highness Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Oni of Ife, and several other Obas from various regions.
The event also saw the participation of renowned figures like Chief & Chief Mrs. Kehinde Alli, Chief Dele Momodu, and Chief Moronke Oyewopo, along with other dignitaries such as Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Dr. Pascal Okechukwu, who all wished the former president well.
In their remarks, former Presidents Jonathan, Sirleaf, and Koroma all praised Chief Obasanjo’s leadership, particularly in his roles with the Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), wishing him longevity and good health.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also credited his political success to the guidance he received from Obasanjo, expressing his gratitude and wishing him continued good health to serve Nigeria and Africa.
In his response, Chief Obasanjo thanked Dr. Uzochukwu, his daughter Funke Obasanjo, and all the dignitaries present. He also apologized to those who were unable to access the venue due to the overwhelming crowd, expressing deep appreciation for their support and presence.
