Tinubu Reveals Why Aremo Osoba Remains His Trusted Ally

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba as a trusted ally and brother whose commitment to service, integrity and good governance has remained consistent throughout decades of public life.

Tinubu stated this in a birthday tribute to the former Ogun State governor and veteran journalist, where he reflected on their long-standing relationship, shared political journey and common belief in building a better Nigeria.

According to the President, his relationship with Osoba has grown beyond politics, anchored on shared values and a commitment to national development.

“I have known Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba for so many years that we could easily write a book about one another,” Tinubu said, adding “behind the titles, the pen, and the politics, stands a man whose first instinct is always to serve.”

The President recalled how they both entered public life through different paths but were united by a common vision of a Nigeria governed with competence, respect for institutions and a commitment to the welfare of citizens.

“We entered public life from different doorways, but we found ourselves in the same house: the house of an idea – that Nigeria could be governed with competence, respect for institutions, and an unyielding belief that our people deserve better,” he said.

Tinubu praised Osoba’s contributions to journalism and politics, describing him as a leader who has consistently demonstrated humility, courage and a strong sense of responsibility.

The President noted that Osoba’s approach to leadership was shaped by his concern for ordinary Nigerians, recalling how the former governor often reminded political strategists to consider the realities of everyday people.

“In strategy rooms where everyone was cracking their brains about votes and victory, Chief Osoba would remind them about the newspaper vendor at CMS or the classroom teacher in Ijebu-Ode,” Tinubu disclosed.

The President also highlighted Osoba’s consistency in both public and private life, describing him as someone who values relationships, courtesy and constructive disagreement.

“What I admire most in Aremo is his consistency. In public and in private, he is the same man,” the Nigerian leader said.

And, further revealed “He will firmly disagree with you, then walk with you to your car, because the argument is about the work and its outcome, not about the person.”

Tinubu said Osoba’s wisdom, drawn from decades of experience and knowledge of Nigeria’s political history, has remained a source of guidance during challenging moments.

He added that the former governor’s reflections on the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the old Western Region often provide valuable lessons on leadership and nation-building.

“Those anecdotes turn panic into perspective. He reminds you that we are part of a longer story,” Tinubu emphasised.

While celebrating Osoba’s birthday, the President wished him good health, peace and more years of contributing to national development.

“I wish him the joy of seeing the ideas we nurtured together take deeper root – schools that work, roads that last, and a government that answers to its people,” Tinubu said.

“Thank you for being a brother in purpose. Thank you for the counsel, your laughter, and for the reminder that leadership without character is worthless,” the Nigerian leader praised the elder statesman.

Tinubu prayed that Osoba’s new year would bring him fulfilment and expressed hope that they would continue working together in pursuit of their shared ideals.