Obasanjo Says Boko Haram War Endures Because Insecurity Has Become an Industry

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has asserted that Nigeria’s 15-year battle against Boko Haram has persisted because insecurity has become a lucrative “industry” benefiting actors within and outside government. Speaking during the Toyin Falola Interviews, Obasanjo criticised the country’s failure to apply a modern counterinsurgency strategy built on training, intelligence, technology, and specialised equipment. He revealed instances of internal sabotage, lack of trust from foreign partners, and missed negotiation opportunities—such as a 2011 ceasefire offer the government failed to pursue. Despite trillions spent on defence, insurgency, banditry, and mass abductions continue to ravage the North, worsening Nigeria’s security crisis.

Obasanjo Says U.S. Never Acted in Africa Without Informing Nigeria During His Presidency

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has claimed that during his time in office, the United States never took any major action in Africa without first informing Nigeria. Speaking at a youth mentorship retreat in Abeokuta, Obasanjo recalled how former U.S. President Jimmy Carter held Nigeria in high regard and always shared America’s intentions on African affairs. His remarks come amid rising tensions over President Donald Trump’s warnings to Nigeria, though Obasanjo avoided commenting directly on the controversy. The ex-president emphasized Nigeria’s past leadership role in Africa and urged renewed national strength.

I met with Sheik Gumi during my tenure after he went to meet with the B0ko Hram terr0r!sts in Sambisa Forest.
Gumi expressed sh0ck, saying that some of the boys were under the age of 15 years, had gvns, and were soaked in hard drvgs” - Frm Pres Olusegun Obasanjo

Nigerians Have the Right to Seek Foreign Help Over Insecurity — Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the federal government fails to protect lives and property.

He warned that the rising killings and attacks across the country should not be trivialised or reduced to ethnic or religious arguments, stressing that human lives must be valued above all political sentiments.

Obasanjo maintained that security is a constitutional responsibility of the government, and when it fails, citizens have the right to call for external support to safeguard their lives.

Nigerians Have the Right to Seek Foreign Help Over Insecurity — Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the federal government fails to protect lives and property.

He warned that the rising killings and attacks across the country should not be trivialised or reduced to ethnic or religious arguments, stressing that human lives must be valued above all political sentiments.

Obasanjo maintained that security is a constitutional responsibility of the government, and when it fails, citizens have the right to call for external support to safeguard their lives.

"You belong in the zoo" — Fmr. Gov. Fayose Allegedly Fires  at Fmr. Pres. Obasanjo in Viral ‘Thank You’ Message.

Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has launched a new verbal attack on ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, calling him “very irresponsible” and claiming he “belongs to the zoo” in a controversial message sent after his 65th birthday celebration.

According to Sahara Reporters, the SMS, intended as a note of appreciation, was sent on Sunday and made public on Monday by Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi. According to Akinyemi, what arrived as a “thank you” message quickly turned into a scathing tirade.

The latest outburst, coming immediately after a birthday celebration, is one of the most dramatic episodes in their nearly two-decade feud.

In the text, Fayose wrote, “Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate except for your very irresponsible comments at your age… someone once said you are supposed to be kept away in the zoo. It is also obvious that you have lost your sanity or should I say heightened dementia.” He also demanded a refund of money he claimed Obasanjo received from him, adding, “Your leopard will never change his skin.”

Obasanjo replied briefly: “Ayo, thanks for your ‘Thank You’ message which undisguisedly revealed who and what you are… Your money has been sent back through Foluso Adeagbo… in the same bag he brought it.”

Fayose and Obasanjo have a long history of political confrontation dating back to 2006, following Fayose’s controversial removal from office—a move his supporters blamed on the former president. Their rivalry has since played out in repeated public criticisms and sharp exchanges.

“Your Comments Were Irresponsible” — Fayose Fires Back at Obasanjo After Birthday Remarks

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has openly criticized ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo over comments made during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration.

During the event, Obasanjo remarked that Fayose was “not his best political student,” recalling past clashes in which Fayose allegedly called him “inconsequential” and blamed him for his political setbacks. Despite this, Obasanjo noted that he had forgiven Fayose following a personal request for reconciliation.

However, Fayose did not take Obasanjo’s remarks lightly.
According to AIT’s report on Monday, November 17, 2025, Fayose sent a strongly worded message to Obasanjo shortly after the event, condemning the former president’s comments as “inappropriate and uncalled for.”

Fayose explained that he chose not to confront Obasanjo publicly at the venue to avoid creating a scene but maintained that the statements were unacceptable.

In his message, Fayose wrote:

“Dear Baba Obasanjo, I trust this meets you well. Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate, except for your very irresponsible comments at your age.”

The exchange has further stirred political conversations, with many Nigerians reacting to the renewed tension between the two influential figures.

OBJ: I Kept Quiet So The World'll Know The Difference Between A Sane And Mad Man That You Are–Fayose.

According to a report by Leadership News on Monday, November 17, 2025, Ayo Fayose, former Ekiti State Governor, has become the centre of a new political controversy after a leaked message reportedly showed him directing a harsh personal remark at Olusegun Obasanjo, who once served as Nigeria’s President.

The message became public on Monday and it has stirred renewed attention around both political figures as it followed Fayose’s recent birthday celebration where Obasanjo was present.

The leaked message was said to be a short message sent by Fayose after the event, expressing displeasure concerning comments allegedly made by Obasanjo during the gathering.

Fayose reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction and described Obasanjo in a manner that suggested he viewed him as unfit for dignified public reference, the language used in the message was viewed as extremely strong and personal.

The content of the message became public after it was released to journalists in Abeokuta.

The disclosure added more interest to the incident as it involved two well-known political names who have a long history of disagreements.

The release of the message also changed what may have been considered a private exchange into a matter of national interest.

Fayose reportedly stated that he had chosen silence during the celebration to avoid a public argument.

"How can I sit quietly in my office when government officials, including directors, are being attacked and beaten?"
— Wike defends his clash with Lt. A.M. Yerima

Reacting to the recent incident involving a naval officer, Minister Nyesom Wike expressed concern about the safety and morale of government officials, saying:

“How can I effectively serve as a minister when government officials are being attacked and intimidated? These are public servants, yet they face threats while sitting in their offices, trying to perform their duties. How can they carry out their responsibilities if they feel unprotected?

“I’ve had calls from respected figures like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, a former President and head of state, or General Theophilus Danjuma, who are retired generals. When they encounter a problem, they call a minister directly. There’s no intimidation, no threat just respect. And I ensure their issues are addressed promptly. That is how respect and protocol work.

“This is very different from situations where serving officers engage in acts of indiscipline. For instance, when a serving major general attacked a control, I immediately wrote a letter to the President and the Chief of Defence Staff, who was the Chief of Army Staff at the time, to address the matter. Everything falls under the authority and control of the military, and proper channels must be observed.

“Before I assumed office, contracts had been awarded to develop areas close to military barracks. Contractors were chased away. I intervened, involving the late Chief of Army Staff, Chief Olabanji, and other relevant defense officials, to find solutions without conflict. I have always respected established processes, and I continue to prioritize resolution through dialogue rather than confrontation.”

'Under My Watch, America Couldn’t Act in Africa Without Informing Nigeria’ — Fmr. Pres. Obasanjo.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says that during his time as Nigeria’s Head of State, the United States under late President Jimmy Carter did not take any major action in Africa without informing Nigeria.

Obasanjo made the statement on Monday in Abeokuta during the Presidential Youth Mentorship Retreat organized by the Youth Development Centre of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.

His remarks come amid ongoing reactions to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that America could deploy troops to Nigeria if the Federal Government fails to stop killing linked to jihadist groups. 

The Federal Government has since rejected Trump’s comments, insisting insecurity affects all groups and is being addressed.

While Obasanjo did not mention the controversy directly, he recalled a period when Nigeria was regarded as Africa’s clear leader. He said Nigeria once commanded strong international respect, noting that Carter would always notify Nigeria before any U.S. move in Africa.

“They were not seeking permission, but they would inform us,” he said.

Obasanjo added that his administration and that of the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed restored Nigeria’s global standing after what he described as a loss of confidence following independence.

“At independence, the world saw Nigeria as a giant. Soon after, we lost that. When Muritala and I came in, we brought it back,” he said.

Addressing the youths at the retreat, Obasanjo urged them to be “positively disruptive” to take up leadership roles rather than waiting indefinitely. He cited examples of sit-tight leaders across Africa and cautioned that if youths leave the future to current leaders, “there may be no tomorrow left to inherit.”

“You have the numbers,” he said, “but the number only matters when you use it.”

Trump’s threat: America couldn’t do anything without our knowledge under my watch – Obasanjo.

In a veiled remark on the ongoing controversy over President Donald Trump’s military invasion threat on Nigeria, the former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday disclosed that under his watch as the Nigeria’s Head of State, late United States President Jimmy Carter would not do anything in Africa without his knowledge.

It would be recalled Trump, in a series of posts on X between October 31 and November 1, condemned continued killings in Nigeria, declaring America’s readiness to send its military to Nigeria if the Federal Government failed to stop the killings by jihadist groups, the remarks which has sparked divergent reactions from both the Federal Government and prominent Nigerian leaders and religious organizations in past weeks.

The federal government particularly rejected Trump’s allegations, insisting that the country’s insecurity affects all religious groups.

Speaking on Monday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the Presidential Youth Mentorship Retreat (6.0) organised by the Youth Development Centre, an arm of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Obasanjo did not make a direct remark to the ongoing controversy, but he tactfully recalled how the US under Carter held Nigeria in high esteem.

Obasanjo and Cater, who died recently in December 2024, were regarded as best of friends.

In January this year, Obasanjo held a memorial service in Abeokuta in honour of Carter, where he paid glowing tributes to the late US President who died at age 100.

According to Obasanjo, right from independence, the world and indeed America saw Nigeria as Africa’s leader, saying the country lost the confidence at some point before the Muritala-Obasanjo military regime “brought it back. “

Going down memory lane, Obasanjo said Cater as the US President would not do anything on African soil without informing the Nigerian government when he was Head of State.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, on Sunday, finally ended his long feud and political hostility with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Fayose met Obasanjo at his residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Oke Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

We Must Win By Whatever Means Necessary” – Former INEC Boss Exposes Politicians Dangerous Mindset.

Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Attahiru Jega, has condemned the desperation of Nigerian politicians to undermine the integrity of the nation’s electoral process.

Speaking in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the joint graduation ceremony of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies and the University of Benin, Jega warned that such a “do-or-die” attitude poses a threat to democratic development.

Jega lamented that the politicians’ attitude towards elections has eroded public trust in the Democratic process.

He pointed out that despite 25 years of uninterrupted democracy since 1999, Nigeria still struggles with electoral malpractice, violence, and widespread distrust in the electoral system.

He said, “When we see the desperation of these politicians, it is very clear, as former President Obasanjo said, that they engage with elections with a ‘do-or-die’ mentality. We must win by whatever means are necessary.

“No elections are perfect and none are likely to ever be,” he admitted, stressing that electoral integrity “is relative and measured as a continuum from the extreme worst-case scenario to the ideal best-case scenario.”

Jega noted that Nigeria’s political landscape has for decades been tainted by the pursuit of power at all costs, adding that fixing the country’s electoral process would require “continuous concerted efforts”.

“The credibility of elections has a direct correlation with the quality of representation and governance,” he added.

Obasanjo Finally Reveals Why He Rejected El-Rufai as His Successor in 2007.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has opened up on why he refused to choose former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as his preferred successor when he was leaving office in 2007.

Speaking at the second edition of the Ajibosin Platform Annual Symposium held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo disclosed that El-Rufai was one of his trusted aides during his administration.

However, he turned down the suggestion to make him president because he believed the former FCT Minister was “not yet mature enough” to handle Nigeria’s leadership at the time.

According to Obasanjo, the idea was pushed to him towards the end of his administration, but he refused to yield, insisting that El-Rufai still had a lot to learn before being ready for such responsibility.

The former president made the revelation while reacting to a speech by former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, who delivered the keynote address at the event.

Chidoka had recalled how El-Rufai introduced him to Obasanjo at age 34; a meeting that later led to his appointment as the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Interrupting Chidoka’s remarks, Obasanjo said with a smile, “Let him tell you. He didn’t mention that when I was leaving government, he was pushing that his friend, El-Rufai, should be brought in as my successor.” Turning to Chidoka, he added jokingly, “No be so?” to which Chidoka nodded in agreement.

Obasanjo continued, “I did not yield to the pressure. Later, he asked why I didn’t agree, and I told him El-Rufai needed to mature. Many years later, after seeing his performance, he came back to me and said, ‘You were absolutely correct — El-Rufai needed to mature.’”

Bigger Than Africa: The Yoruba Story That Conquered Continents and Captivated Netflix Audiences

The Yoruba people — one of Africa’s most influential tribes with over 40 million members worldwide — take center stage in the breathtaking documentary Bigger Than Africa, directed by Toyin Ibrahim Adekeye.

Premiered on February 12, 2018, this cinematic masterpiece takes viewers across six countries — Nigeria, the Republic of Benin, Brazil, Trinidad & Tobago, Cuba, and the United States — to explore the global influence, spirituality, and resilience of Yoruba culture.

A Story That Transcends Borders
Bigger Than Africa focuses not on what divides Africans, but on what unites them. Through powerful storytelling and insightful interviews, it reveals how Yoruba traditions survived slavery, crossed oceans, and became embedded in cultures across the Americas.

The documentary features some of Africa’s most respected figures — former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, the King of Port Novo, and Fame Elebuibon, among others.

Global Recognition and Awards
Produced by Motherland Productions, the documentary has earned several international accolades, including:

Best Documentary, International Houston Black Film Festival (2019)

Best Documentary, Charlotte Black Film Festival

Jury Special Award, Festival International du Film Panafricain de Cannes


It has also been screened at prestigious venues such as the Schomburg Center for Research on Black Culture and even at the United Nations.

The Inspiration Behind the Masterpiece
Toyin Ibrahim Adekeye’s inspiration came during a visit to Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina — a Yoruba cultural haven in the U.S. What began as a short school project soon evolved into a global film celebrating African heritage.

Raised in Kwara State, Nigeria, Toyin moved to the U.S. in 2001, later enrolling at the Los Angeles Film School to pursue his passion for filmmaking. His journey, fueled by creativity and cultural pride, birthed Bigger Than Africa — a documentary that redefines how the world sees Yoruba culture.

Now Streaming on Netflix
Since May 13, Bigger Than Africa has been available for global streaming on Netflix, distributed by KAP Film and EGMNY (New York). This gives millions worldwide a chance to experience the beauty, depth, and unity of Yoruba heritage.

“You Can’t Rewrite History” — Orji Kalu Insists Obasanjo Truly Sought Third Term In Office

Former Abia State Governor and Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has once again stirred controversy over former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s alleged third-term ambition, claiming that the former leader indeed made attempts to extend his tenure beyond the constitutional limit.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Kalu revealed that Obasanjo had personally discussed the third-term plan with him and several northern governors at the time. He alleged that the rift between Obasanjo and former Rivers State Governor, Peter Odili, was linked to this controversial agenda.

According to Kalu, Obasanjo’s recent denials were an attempt to “rewrite history,” a move he insists will never succeed. The senator called on other key political figures who were aware of the plan to speak out and uphold the truth, stressing that the effort to elongate Obasanjo’s rule was real — but was ultimately thwarted by defenders of democracy.

In his words:

“Why was he quarreling with Governor Peter Odili? He wanted third term. Let’s not deceive ourselves. The man wants to rewrite history, but it can’t be rewritten. He wanted third term and we stopped him from getting it.”

I Told Mandela and Bush About Obasanjo’s Third Term Ambition” — Orji Uzor Kalu Makes Shocking Revelation!


Former Abia State Governor and Senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, has stirred political discussions after revealing that he personally informed world leaders about former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s alleged third term agenda during his tenure.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Channels Television, Kalu disclosed that he alerted global figures including former U.S. President George W. Bush, South Africa’s Thabo Mbeki, and the late Nelson Mandela about Obasanjo’s alleged plan to extend his stay in power beyond the constitutional limit.

According to Kalu, he took the bold step after realizing the seriousness of the situation, believing that involving respected international leaders was necessary to protect Nigeria’s democracy.

“I was the one who told President Thabo Mbeki that Obasanjo was running for a third term. I also told President Bush and Mandela. They all called him to confirm it,” Kalu said.


He recounted that Nelson Mandela, concerned about the implications of such a move for Africa’s democratic values, immediately summoned Obasanjo for clarification. Kalu also revealed that Obasanjo later held private discussions with Thabo Mbeki in New York during a United Nations General Assembly session to address the growing global concern.

Kalu described these interventions as a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history, noting that the exposure helped curb what could have been a serious constitutional crisis.

He criticized the culture of political denial and misinformation in Nigeria, warning that a democracy built on deceit and manipulation cannot survive.

“We must protect the truth and the constitution. A democracy built on lies and falsehood will crumble over time,” he cautioned.


Kalu’s revelation has since reignited public debate about Nigeria’s political past and the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped the country’s democratic journey.

INEC Chairman Escapes Police Arrest After Partial Compliance with Court Order.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has avoided arrest by the Nigerian Police Force after partially complying with a Federal High Court judgment in Osogbo.

The court, presided over by Justice Funmilola Demi-Ajayi, had ordered Yakubu to restore the name of the Action Alliance (AA) National Chairman, Adekunle Rufai Omoaje, along with the names of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), to INEC’s official portal.

The court further directed that the names of all state chairmen elected under Omoaje’s leadership be posted online.

While INEC fully complied with the order to restore the state chairmen’s names, it only partially implemented the judgment regarding the NEC. The portal now includes the NEC members’ names but omits Omoaje’s name and the address of the party’s national secretariat. Additionally, the name of Kenneth Udeze, who had been suspended and expelled from the party, still appears on the portal.

The AA had elected its NEC at the party’s national convention held on October 7, 2023, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Following INEC’s partial compliance, the court had instructed the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to arrest Yakubu if he failed to fully implement the ruling within seven days. Yakubu, however, was not arrested.

In response, the Action Alliance, through its Osun State Chairman, Araoye Oyewole, filed a counter-affidavit before the Federal High Court on October 2, 2025. The affidavit argues that INEC and its chairman have not fully complied with the court’s directives, urging the court to give complete adherence to its judgment.

Oyewole stated, “While the names of all state chairmen have been restored to the INEC portal, the judgment specifically mandating recognition of Adekunle Rufai Omoaje as National Chairman has not been followed. The judgment debtors have only partially complied with the court’s orders in suit number FHC/OS/CS/194/2024.”

The case is ongoing, with the party seeking full enforcement of the court’s ruling.

If Nigeria’s Population Growth is Not  Tackled, By 2050, Boko Haram will be Child’s Play — Fmr. President Obasanjo.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed serious concern about Nigeria’s rising population, warning that unchecked growth could have dire consequences for the nation.

Speaking in Sokoto at the inauguration of the Bakhita ICT Centre at the Catholic Secretariat, Obasanjo stressed the role of education and knowledge as vital tools for national progress.

“By the year 2050, people like the Sultan will be here. I am not praying to be here 25 years from now,” he remarked.
“We will have the problem of 400 million Nigerians that have to be provided with food, work, that have to be satisfied. If we fail to prepare for that, Boko Haram of today will be a child’s play. We have to take care of it now.”

The former president further urged Nigerians to value the country’s unity in diversity and resist divisive external narratives.
“If our diversity is taking along with good governance with everybody being included, then we will get there.
Not will we be respected, we will be counted among the leading nations of the world.”

He also commended Bishop Hassan Matthew Kukah for initiating the ICT project, describing it as a facility for all Nigerians regardless of “religion, ethnicity, or gender.”

Also speaking at the event, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, expressed appreciation to Obasanjo for attending and called on citizens to emulate his commitment to unity. He stressed the need for Nigerians to come together in tackling insecurity and driving development.

Representing Governor Aliyu, Alhaji Aminu Dikko, the Chief of Staff to the Sokoto State Government, lauded both Obasanjo and the Catholic Diocese for the initiative. He assured that the state government remains dedicated to expanding technology education and creating opportunities for future generations.

“Nigeria’s Strength Lies in Unity” — Obasanjo Declares in Sokoto

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described himself as “one of the greatest beneficiaries of Nigeria’s diversity,” stressing that the country’s strength rests in its ability to harness unity in diversity.

Speaking on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the inauguration of the Bakhita ICT Centre at the Catholic Secretariat in Sokoto, Obasanjo noted that Nigeria thrives when leaders embrace honesty, inclusiveness, and good governance.

> “Nigeria is not a difficult country to govern if leaders are honest with themselves, with God, and with the people,” he said.

Reflecting on his leadership journey, Obasanjo recalled how he sought counsel from elders across the North, South, East, and West since 1979, using their wisdom to sustain unity.

At the event, he commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, for promoting peace and unity in the state. He also praised Bishop Matthew Kukah for spearheading the ICT project and Aare Afe Babalola for his support.

The ICT Centre will provide training in computer literacy, coding, data science, and digital skills for all Nigerians, regardless of background.

In his remarks, the Sultan hailed Obasanjo’s commitment to unity, while the state government pledged continued investment in technology-driven education.