Olusegun Obasanjo

General Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR (born 1937) is a unique figure in Nigerian history, having led the nation as both military head of state (1976-1979) and elected president (1999-2007). Born in Abeokuta, Obasanjo joined the Nigerian Army in 1958, rising through the ranks during the Civil War where he accepted Biafra's surrender. As military leader, he oversaw Nigeria's transition to civilian rule in 1979, willingly handing over power—a rare act in African military governance. In 1999, he was elected president after years of military dictatorship, working to restore democracy, combat corruption, and revitalize the economy. He negotiated debt relief saving Nigeria billions. His farm in Ota became a symbol of post-political productivity. Controversial and resilient, Obasanjo remains influential in African politics, mediating conflicts across the continent. Love him or critique him, his impact on modern Nigeria is undeniable.