- Former President Olusegun Obasanjo honored Jimmy Carter, describing him as a “titan and man of peace” during a memorial service
- Obasanjo recalled how Carter intervened to secure his release from prison during Abacha’s regime, showcasing their deep friendship
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to his late friend and former U.S. President, Jimmy Carter, describing him as a “titan and man of peace.”
The memorial service was held at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Carter, who served as the 39th President of the United States and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his humanitarian efforts, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia.
Obasanjo shared emotional memories, recounting how Carter intervened to secure his release from prison during the military rule of General Sani Abacha.
“President Carter was one of my foreign friends who risked everything to save my life and seek my release from prison,” Obasanjo said.
“He visited Nigeria and convinced Abacha to transfer me from detention to house arrest on my farm. However, that arrangement didn’t last long.”
Despite multiple interventions from global leaders, Carter was reportedly the only non-African figure to meet Abacha solely to personally advocate for Obasanjo’s freedom.
“I remain ever grateful to all who worked for my release from Abacha’s prison,” Obasanjo added. “Although Abacha ensured I remained detained, I was released within a week of his death by his successor, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.”
Obasanjo revealed that Carter informed him of media mogul Ted Turner’s support to secure his release.
“Carter told me, ‘Please see Ted Turner and thank him. He wanted you released and offered to take care of you and your family wherever you chose to live.’ I was deeply moved and visited Ted, who expressed similar sentiments.”
In a tribute titled “Jimmy Carter: The Departure of a Titan,” Obasanjo reflected on the similarities between their lives.
“He grew up in a farming family in Plains, Georgia, while I was raised in a rural farming village in Ogun State. We both learned discipline, integrity, and compassion from our parents,” Obasanjo said.
Although both men pursued military careers, they connected further through politics. Obasanjo highlighted Carter’s humility and dedication to social causes, particularly during the struggle to dismantle apartheid in Southern Africa.
“One great lesson I learned from President Carter was his ability to lead by example with humility while inspiring a team that shared his vision. That approach brought him success,” Obasanjo noted.
The former Nigerian leader concluded his tribute with a heartfelt message: “I will deeply miss a great and true friend, but I know we shall meet again in Paradise.”