As Nigeria salutes one of her finest statesmen, Chief Olusegun Osoba, on his 86th birthday, we at ValidViewNetwork join millions in celebrating the Superstar of Nigerian governance, the Akinrogun of Egbaland, and a relentless advocate for people-focused development. We celebrate not just the man but the movement he has become, which is a symbol of courage, vision, and unwavering service to the people of Ogun State and Nigeria. He is a man whose legacy continues to shape governance, journalism, democracy, and leadership development across generations.

A Rich Heritage and Early Path

Born on July 15, 1939, Chief Osoba’s life has been a consistent trail of excellence, discipline, and intellectual curiosity. A native of Ogun State, he attended Methodist Boys’ High School, Lagos, where his academic brilliance did not go unnoticed. He pursued further education in journalism at the University of Lagos, and later at Indiana University, USA, where he trained as an investigative journalist.

This training laid the foundation for his remarkable career at the Daily Times of Nigeria, where he rose to become Managing Director. This position certainly exposed him to national and international political thinking and leadership. He blended his sharp mind with his eye for detail, which were skills developed in the newsroom, which later defined his political life.

ADVERTISEMENT

Democrat, Statesman, NADECO Patriot

During the dark era of military dictatorship, Chief Osoba stood firmly with other patriots to resist tyranny and restore democratic governance in Nigeria. As a founding member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), he put his life and reputation on the line for democracy. He was a vocal, consistent, and fearless advocate for the revalidation of the June 12, 1993, election and the recognition of Chief M.K.O. Abiola as the rightful winner.

His activism, grounded in democratic conviction, earned him both admiration and surveillance. But he remained unshaken. Today, Nigeria’s Fourth Republic owes much to the sacrifices of men like Chief Osoba, who are true defenders of the people’s will.  

Without any doubt, Chief Osoba was one of the happiest people when the Federal Government of Nigeria eventually formally recognised Chief M.K.O. Abiola as the winner of the June 1993 Presidential election. This official recognition was both symbolic and historic, addressing decades of advocacy and national reflection over the annulled election by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida in 1993. Osoba had declared that the recognition made all the suffering and price paid by Abiola and pro-democracy crusaders “no more in vain’’

Governance with Accessibility and Impact

As Governor of Ogun State (1992–1993 and 1999–2003), Chief Osoba introduced a new template of leadership — humane, open, inclusive, and visionary. His famous open-door policy was not mere political rhetoric. It was real, practical, and deeply felt across the state. He related to people as equals, called them by name, and responded swiftly to their concerns.

This is an uncommon approach that signals respect, recognition, and personal appreciation for the electorate and is core to human dignity. According to Dale Carnegie, “A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”

The traditional barriers between government and citizens were removed. He listened, responded, acted, and most notably, he remembered.

He could call civil servants, community leaders, students, and even market women by name. He was famously non-evasive, fully present, and always accessible. It is no surprise that we, the student leaders of the time, gave him the title “Superstar”. He bore the name with humility and lived up to it with distinction.

His administration championed several people-centric projects across the length and breadth of the state, opening development to neglected areas.

These projects remain strategic to the development of the state as they connect rural communities to economic hubs, stimulate agricultural productivity, and promote educational access and equity.

A Leader of Leaders

Chief Osoba’s style of leadership was not autocratic, but developmental. His support for the local government system was not tokenistic. He empowered Chairmen to excel, encouraged constructive rivalry, and set performance benchmarks that institutionalised accountability at the grassroots. He held them accountable, not by intimidation, but by consistent positive engagement.  

Still Relevant, Still Serving

Chief Osoba continues to play a critical role as a national leader in Nigeria’s current ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). As one of the founding fathers of the APC, he has brought experience, balance, and maturity to the party’s strategic direction.

Decades after leaving office, Chief Osoba has remained deeply connected with his people. Unlike many politicians who disappear once out of power, Osoba never left. The Superstar has remained. His enduring popularity stems not from propaganda, but authentic service and genuine care.

He remains a bridge between the old guard and the younger political class, advocating for internal democracy, party discipline, and people-centred governance. His voice is respected not just in Ogun but across Nigeria’s political spectrum.

He has metamorphosed into a movement, a political institution which is proof that true leadership is not about occupying office but staying connected to purpose and people.

His political relevance continues because his brand of leadership was never about self enrichment. It was always about delivering lives from poverty, ignorance, and marginalisation. From Isara to Idiroko, Sagamu to Ilaro, Chief Osoba’s name opens doors and warms hearts.

This roundly confirms his saying : “I never sought power for its sake, but for what it could do for the people.”

Osoba Leadership Academy: A Vision for the Future

As younger generations emerge, many of whom were too young to witness his era as Governor, it becomes important to preserve and transfer his leadership blueprint.  

In a time when many young Nigerians lack direct experience of visionary governance, it is imperative to institutionalise Chief Osoba’s values through the Osoba Leadership Academy. Such an academy would be a training ground for ethical, people-oriented leaders, drawing from his political sagacity, communication brilliance, and administrative acumen. This is an effort that is necessary to replicate his ideals and principles.  

This academy would ensure that the generations who never met the “Superstar Governor” in office can still learn from his principles of transparency, responsiveness, equity, and service.

 The Osoba Leadership Academy will serve as a hub for grooming principled, people-driven leaders who can replicate his legacy of openness, courage, and precision. Such an academy would serve as a living institution, immortalising his contributions and preparing Ogun — and Nigeria — for the next generation of service-oriented politicians.

Celebrating a Living Icon

At 86, Chief Olusegun Osoba remains active, impactful, and inspirational. He continues to mentor, advise, and speak truth to power. He remains a mentor to governors, lawmakers, students, and everyday citizens who see in him a symbol of what is still possible in Nigerian politics. He is a rare statesman whose presence commands respect and whose legacy commands reflection.

We pray that God Almighty will continue to bless Chief Osoba with good health, sound mind, and peace. May his legacy of hope, devotion, integrity, and service remain indelible in our hearts and etched in the chronicles of our nation’s history.