In about a fortnight, Professor Yemi Osinbajo will be concluding his tour of duty as the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Without any form of gainsaying, Nigerians, including yours truly, have seen in the last 8 years what it means for someone to be so passionately dedicated to the ideals of nation building; given all of himself towards bettering our country and improving the lots of her citizens. In Osinbajo, Nigerians saw a man so committed and so brave, placing his entire life in the service of Nigeria and stretching himself almost to a breaking point, in order to render commendable service to this beautiful country.
Recently, I came across a presentation delivered by Professor Osinbajo at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Jos, Plateau State. In the lecture in question, the Vice President spoke of the demand on the stakeholders in the Nigerian project to protect the oneness of the nation by desisting from the “willful exploitation of sectional sentiment and the invocation of ethnic antipathy.” He called for discipline as a necessary requirement in ensuring that peaceful coexistence is sustained in Nigeria.
On that occasion, as always, he spoke with passion and with all the strength of his voice, calling on every Nigerian to embrace a national, rather than primordial, identity.
In eight years, both at home and abroad,
Osinbajo speaks for Nigeria and on behalf of Nigeria at every turn, using the sheer force of his character, finesse, values, integrity and distinct intellect to project our country. What is more, he never allowed himself to be bugged down by needless officialdom; staying true to himself all through and remaining courteous and friendly with everyone, higher or low, who come his way. And no matter how great a critic you are, one thing you can’t fault about Osinbajo is his glaring patriotism and deep love for this country, which he has displayed consistently by doing his job as the Vice President with unmatched character, competence and integrity.
Personally, in the time I have been close to the VP, I have encountered first hand his big heart, compassion, empathy and openness as a leader. He is intelligent without being snobbish. As someone who is very open to ideas, all you need to get Professor Osinbajo sign off on your idea or suggestion is to convince him of its value and impact on Nigeria. This is why I believe very strongly that the outgoing Vice President is not just a result-oriented administrator but also a true patriot, a selfless one at that.
Indeed, when Nigerians looked back between 2015 and 2023, they will most certainly applaud the significant contributions and impact made by a certain man with the signature Awo cap, described by many as someone with admirable competence who “exudes confidence and passion in the performance of his job.” Having been a consistent intellectual in governance and public service, Osinabajo has raised the expectations associated with the VP office and proven that it is possible to make impact while retaining your values and character.
As he goes home in two weeks for a deserved rest, may be not for too long, it is my prayers that God will continue to lighten the path of our dear Professor Osinbajo. Personally, I thank him for his friendship and the dedicated service he rendered our country; and I beseech Allah (SWT) to bless His Excellency, the VP, with long life to see Nigeria achieve its destined greatness.
Thank you, Prof., for the honour of your friendship and for passing to us lessons in dedication, selfless service and patriotism to fatherland. For all the privileges and unrestrained love, myself, mum and siblings would continue to regard you as our family.
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