A delegation of awardees from the Royal African Young Leadership Forum (RAYLF) recently visited the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Nigeria, as part of their program itinerary. The RAYLF, a prestigious forum recognizing young leaders across Africa, provided its awardees with the unique opportunity to meet with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The visit included a comprehensive tour of the OOPL, which chronicles President Obasanjo’s life and his significant contributions to Nigeria’s history. The awardees gained insights into his rise to power, starting from his assumption of the head of state position in 1976 following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in a military coup. The tour highlighted his pivotal role in overseeing the successful 1979 elections, a crucial step in Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule.
Following the elections, President Obasanjo willingly relinquished power, demonstrating his commitment to democratic principles. He then embarked on a new chapter, returning to his hometown of Ota, Ogun State, where he pursued various endeavors, including farming, authorship (publishing four books), and international conflict resolution initiatives across Africa.
The visit culminated in a captivating town hall meeting with the former president himself. President Obasanjo addressed the enthusiastic group of awardees, representing 40 African nations. He imparted valuable wisdom from his experiences, both in leading Nigeria and collaborating with various African governments.
A central theme of President Obasanjo’s message was the importance of proactive leadership. He urged the young leaders not to passively wait for opportunities but to actively pursue leadership roles. He emphasized that societal progress necessitates individuals taking initiative and shaping their destinies, rather than expecting power to be bestowed upon them.
The RAYLF awardees’ visit to the OOPL proved to be a valuable learning experience, providing them with firsthand exposure to Nigerian history and President Obasanjo’s leadership philosophy. This encounter undoubtedly served as an inspiration for these future leaders as they navigate their own paths to shaping Africa’s future.
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