OLUSEGUN OBASANJO Biography: Olusegun Obasanjo is a name that resonates deeply in Nigerian history and politics. As a former military leader, a two-term president, and a well-regarded international statesman, his life story is full of remarkable achievements, challenges, and contributions to both Nigeria and the world at large. In this biography, we will dive into the life of Olusegun Obasanjo, covering important details about his real name, family, career, net worth, age, and much more.
Obasanjo’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and dedication to public service. His journey from a small village to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential figures is an inspiring tale of hard work, intellect, and determination. Please keep reading to learn about his background, how he became a household name, and how much he is worth today.
Olusegun Obasanjo’s Early Life
OLUSEGUN OBASANJO Biography: Full Name and Real Name
The full name of Olusegun Obasanjo is Olusegun Matthew Okikiola Aremu Obasanjo. Born on March 5, 1937, in the town of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, Obasanjo grew up in a relatively humble setting. He came from a Yoruba family, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups. His mother, who was his first major influence, instilled in him the importance of education and service to others.
Despite the limited resources available to his family at the time, Obasanjo’s parents were dedicated to giving him the best opportunities for education. His early life was marked by an intense sense of curiosity and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
OLUSEGUN OBASANJO Biography:Age and Date of Birth
As of 2025, Olusegun Obasanjo is 88 years old. Born on March 5, 1937, he has seen Nigeria go through several stages of its political and economic history. He has played a pivotal role in shaping many of the country’s major events.
Olusegun Obasanjo’s Family Life
Parents and Siblings
Obasanjo was born to a relatively humble family. His father, a farmer, and his mother, a trader, both worked hard to support the family. Although not much is known about his early life in terms of formal education, Obasanjo credits his parents for providing the foundational values that helped him throughout his career.
Olusegun Obasanjo grew up alongside his siblings in Abeokuta. The Obasanjo family was not wealthy, but they valued education and discipline. This environment would later serve as a strong basis for Obasanjo’s rise in the military and politics.
Spouse and Children
Olusegun Obasanjo has had multiple marriages, but his most well-known spouse was Stella Obasanjo, whom he married in 1993. Unfortunately, Stella passed away in 2005 while serving as Nigeria’s First Lady. The death of Stella was a deep emotional blow to Obasanjo, but he has continued to dedicate his life to Nigeria and its people.
Obasanjo has several children from his various marriages, including sons and daughters who have become well-known in their own right. Some of his children are involved in public service, while others have pursued careers in business and other fields. Obasanjo is known to be a family man and takes pride in his children’s accomplishments.
Olusegun Obasanjo’s Career: Military, Politics, and Leadership
Military Career
Olusegun Obasanjo’s career took off when he joined the Nigerian Army in 1958. This was a time when Nigeria was still under colonial rule, and the military was a key institution in the country’s push for independence. Obasanjo’s military career began with a commitment to the defense of his country, and he rose through the ranks quickly.
During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), Obasanjo played a significant role as a military officer, eventually rising to the rank of Brigadier General. His leadership during the war earned him widespread recognition, and after the war, he was positioned as one of Nigeria’s leading military figures.
Political Leadership and Presidency
Obasanjo’s political career began when he was imprisoned following a failed coup in 1995. However, he was released from prison in 1998 and quickly became a key figure in the political transition that followed the death of General Sani Abacha, Nigeria’s military leader at the time. In 1999, after a period of military rule, Nigeria transitioned to a civilian government, and Olusegun Obasanjo was elected as the President of Nigeria.
Obasanjo served two terms as president from 1999 to 2007, and during his tenure, he worked on several critical issues affecting Nigeria. He focused on improving the country’s economy, fighting corruption, and strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with the international community. Obasanjo also played a key role in the African Union (AU) and other international organizations, advocating for peace and development across the African continent.
Major Achievements
Some of Obasanjo’s key achievements as president include:
- Debt Relief for Nigeria: One of his most significant achievements was negotiating the cancellation of Nigeria’s foreign debt with international creditors. Under his leadership, Nigeria was able to reduce its external debt by more than 60%, which allowed the country to focus on social and infrastructural development.
- Economic Reforms: Obasanjo’s administration introduced several economic reforms aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s economy and reducing reliance on oil. These reforms included the introduction of new banking policies, the improvement of the agricultural sector, and the expansion of the telecommunications industry.
- Promotion of Democracy: Obasanjo is also credited with helping Nigeria transition from military rule to a civilian government. His presidency helped stabilize the country after years of military dictatorships.
- International Diplomacy: As a statesman, Obasanjo has been actively involved in peacekeeping missions in Africa and international diplomacy. He played a key role in mediating peace agreements in countries such as Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Controversies
While significant achievements marked Obasanjo’s time in office, it was also riddled with controversy. Some of the key criticisms of his presidency include his handling of the 2003 and 2007 elections, which were marred by allegations of electoral fraud and rigging. Furthermore, Obasanjo’s attempt to amend the constitution to allow him to serve a third term was strongly opposed by many Nigerians and political leaders.
Despite these controversies, Obasanjo remains a major figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Post-Presidency: Influence and Legacy
Even after stepping down from the presidency, Obasanjo continued to be an influential figure. He has served as an international mediator, often called upon to help resolve conflicts in African countries. His influence extends beyond Nigeria, as he has been involved in a variety of global peace-building efforts.
Obasanjo is also an active writer and has authored several books on Nigerian politics, leadership, and development. He frequently speaks on issues such as governance, the role of youth in Africa, and the importance of sustainable development.
Olusegun Obasanjo’s Net Worth
How Much is Olusegun Obasanjo Worth?
As of 2025, Olusegun Obasanjo’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion. This makes him one of the wealthiest and most influential individuals in Nigeria. Much of his wealth comes from his extensive political career, business ventures, and investments in various industries.
Throughout his life, Obasanjo has been involved in a wide range of businesses, including agriculture, oil, and telecommunications. He has invested in several companies, and his business ventures have contributed significantly to his fortune. In addition to his business activities, Obasanjo also owns various properties in Nigeria and abroad.
How Did Olusegun Obasanjo Make His Money?
Obasanjo’s wealth comes from a combination of his government service, business ventures, and international consulting work. His time as a military officer and later as president provided him with significant opportunities for business investments. Furthermore, Obasanjo has been involved in several successful enterprises, including large-scale agricultural projects and investment in the telecommunications sector.
Obasanjo has also earned money through his writing, speaking engagements, and work as a consultant for various international organizations. His expertise in politics and international relations has made him a sought-after figure for advice on governance and diplomacy.
Conclusion
Olusegun Obasanjo is a towering figure in Nigerian history, both as a military leader and a political figure. His life and career span decades, during which he played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s political, economic, and social landscape. From his early days in the military to his presidency and beyond, Obasanjo has left an indelible mark on the country and the African continent.
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Today, at 88 years old, Olusegun Obasanjo continues to be an influential voice in global politics. His legacy is one of leadership, resilience, and dedication to the service of his country and humanity. While his career has not been without its controversies, his contributions to Nigeria and Africa are undeniable.
With a net worth of $1.5 billion, Olusegun Obasanjo has built a legacy that extends far beyond his time in office, and his story remains an inspiration to many.
