BUHARI PHONES OBASANJO FROM UK, SALUTES HIM AT 80

President Muhammadu Buhari has felicitated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 80th birthday. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, made this known in a statement last night.

Adesina said in a phone call from London, where he is convalescing, Buhari told the former military ruler (1976 to 1979) and democratically elected president (1999 to 2007) that "a time like this provides opportunity to reflect on Obasanjo's invaluable roles and contributions to the unity and cohesion of Nigeria, the brotherhood of all Africans, as well as peace and amity over the globe."

The presidential spokesman quoted Buhari as describing the former president as "a true citizen of the world."

He said Buhari recalled their days in the military thus: "Those of us who served under you in various capacities recall a man with boundless energy, with razor sharp mind, and one who does not suffer fools gladly. Working with you was a school in itself, and the lessons learnt are worth their weight in gold."

Adesina said Obasanjo wished President Buhari good health, saying he stood together with him in prayers so that he could return soon "to continue the good work he is doing for the country."