ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has congratulated the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Olatunde Badmus, on his 80th birthday celebration and shared tips on longevity for octogenarians.
Obasanjo spoke in Osogbo, Osun State, on Saturday during a book launch organised in honour of Badmus’ 80th birthday. He was represented at the event by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
In a speech delivered by Adeleke on his behalf, Obasanjo praised Badmus for his achievements in business and other areas of life.
He also advised Badmus and other octogenarians to prioritise adequate rest, engage in one hour of daily exercise, and maintain a two-meal-a-day routine to live beyond 90 years.
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“By every standard, you are successful in all your endeavours. Your leadership roles in all the businesses you undertook are impressive. In business and outside business, you always make God your partner.
“At the age of 80, let me welcome you to this club. Let me read the rules of the club to you. Number one, your father and mother must not be alive, you must sleep for eight hours every day, you must undertake one hour of daily exercise like walking, and you must eat only twice a day.
“With obedience to these rules, your admission is registered and your longevity beyond 90 years is assured,” he said.
In his remarks, Adeleke described the chairman of Tuns Farms Limited as a prominent local, national and international statesman who had made significant contributions across different sectors.
Also speaking at the event, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, said Badmus had remained devoted to his faith while building a successful business career.
Dangote said, “I was a young businessman when I met Baba. I want young entrepreneurs, especially students, to learn from this nobleman. I want to launch this book with the sum of N100m.
“The celebrant has been a great man who has held on to his religion. He is a very religious person and also an astute businessman. We have been together for a very long time, since I was also a young man hustling to make money.
“But he has been able to maintain his business and his religion, so I admire and respect him. This made me leave Lagos. I drove for four hours and I am driving four hours back. May God give him long life and continued blessings.”
Urging Nigerians to embrace unity and actively contribute to nation-building, Dangote said citizens must believe in the country and support leaders to succeed.
“All of us collectively must always pray for our leaders to make sure they succeed. Once they do, it will be better for all of us,” he said.
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who offered prayers for the celebrant, said Badmus had built a strong reputation in business and encouraged Nigerians to emulate his patriotic approach to national issues.
It was also reported that the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, commissioned a mosque built by Badmus as part of activities marking his 80th birthday in Osogbo, Osun State.