Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has congratulated the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Olatunde Badmus, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, while also offering advice to fellow octogenarians on healthy living and longevity.
Obasanjo spoke on Saturday in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, during the launch of a book organised as part of activities marking Badmus’ 80th birthday celebration.
The former president was represented at the event by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.
In a speech delivered by Adeleke on his behalf, Obasanjo praised Badmus for his achievements in business and public life, describing his leadership qualities as exemplary.
According to the former president, discipline in rest, exercise and diet remains essential for people seeking longevity beyond the age of 90.
“By every standard, you are successful in all your endeavours. Your leadership roles in all the businesses you undertook are impressive. In business and outside business, you always make God your partner,” Obasanjo said.
“At the age of 80, let me welcome you to this club. Let me read the rules of the club to you. Number one, your father and mother must not be alive, you must sleep for eight hours every day, you must undertake one hour of daily exercise like walking, and you must eat only twice a day.
“With obedience to these rules, your admission is registered and your longevity beyond 90 years is assured.”
In his remarks, Adeleke described the chairman of Tuns Farms Limited as a respected statesman whose contributions cut across local, national and international spheres.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, also paid glowing tribute to the celebrant, commending his commitment to both business excellence and religious devotion.
Dangote revealed that he had known Badmus since his early years as an entrepreneur and encouraged young Nigerians to emulate the celebrant’s values and resilience.
“I was a young businessman when I met Baba. I want young entrepreneurs, especially students, to learn from this nobleman. I want to launch this book with the sum of N100m,” Dangote said.
“The celebrant has been a great man who has held on to his religion. He is a very religious person and also an astute businessman. We have been together for a very long time, since I was also a young man hustling to make money.”
Dangote added that Badmus’ ability to sustain both his business empire and religious commitments earned him deep admiration and respect.
He also urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at national unity and development, stressing that nation-building should not be left solely in the hands of political leaders.
“All of us collectively must always pray for our leaders to make sure they succeed. Once they do, it will be better for all of us,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, prayed for the celebrant and praised his contributions to business and national development.
The monarch urged Nigerians to emulate Badmus’ patriotism and commitment to societal progress.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, had earlier commissioned a mosque built by Badmus in Osogbo as part of activities commemorating the businessman’s 80th birthday.
