The President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari has described Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo as a dedicated and loyal compatriot with a passionate desire for the development of Nigeria.
The President spoke at the virtual unveiling of a book titled “Osinbajo Strides: Defining Moments of An Innovative Leader” written in honour of the Vice President by a team of 25 journalists under the auspices of PYO COLLECTIVE.
Buhari, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, applauded Osinbajo’s dedication to service especially in catering for the interest of the masses.
He thanked Osinbajo for his selflessness and passion for excellence in the execution of tasks assigned to his office, acknowledging all of his visits to the different parts of the country to identify with the common people.
The former Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, who was also in attendance said Nigeria lost for not having Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as the country’s President.
Sanusi said this at a virtual book launch titled, “Osinbajo Strides: Defining Moments of an Innovative Leader,” on Monday.
The VP was one of the aspirants of the All Progressives Congress presidential primary, who some criticized for contesting against his former boss and the now President-elect, Bola Tinubu, during the party’s presidential primary.
Sanusi, who is also a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, noted that Osinbajo was one of those in the present administration ready to deliberate on developmental matters.
He said: “And I dare say, we all agree that Nigeria is worse off for not having someone like him (Osinbajo) as president, but I do hope that he will be available to serve and to advise and to put in his best for the country and continue to do.
“So, I’m sure he will, in whatever capacity he finds himself in the future, and maybe, we’ll still be lucky to have him lead us at some point or take some leadership role as a statesman.”
In his remarks, Mr. Osinbajo said he felt honoured to be celebrated in such a manner.
The Vice President commended former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, for his belief in a better Nigeria.
Mr. Osinbajo commended the elder statesman’s impact and influence in major decisions particularly with regards to uniting Nigerians and promoting peace across the country.
He also expressed gratitude to state governors and other guests present at the event for their support and cooperation throughout the eight years of his stewardship as vice president.
Other dignitaries who attended the event alongside Mr Gowon, were the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.
Others were Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau, Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, and the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Musa Akabe.
The former Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, literary icon, Chimamanda Adichie, and renowned broadcaster, Kadaria Ahmed, also attended the event.
(NAN)