Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared what he described as the “rules” for living beyond 90 years as he celebrated the 80th birthday of the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Olatunde Badmus.
Obasanjo spoke on Saturday in Osogbo, Osun State, during the launch of a book organised in honour of Badmus’ 80th birthday. He was represented at the event by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
In a speech read on his behalf by Adeleke, the former president praised Badmus for his achievements in business and public service, describing his leadership qualities as exemplary.
Obasanjo, however, used the occasion to advise Badmus and other octogenarians on healthy living, stressing the importance of adequate rest, regular exercise and disciplined eating habits.
“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,” he said.
Welcoming the celebrant into what he described as the “club” of octogenarians, Obasanjo outlined the conditions for longevity.
“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,” he added.
In his remarks, Adeleke described the octogenarian as a distinguished statesman whose contributions cut across local, national and international spheres.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, also paid glowing tribute to Badmus, describing him as a deeply religious man who successfully balanced faith and business.
Dangote announced a donation of N100 million towards the launch of the commemorative book and urged young entrepreneurs to emulate the celebrant’s discipline and values.
“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,” he said.
He added that Badmus had remained steadfast in his faith while building a successful business empire.
“But he has been able to maintain his business and his religion, so I admire and respect him. This made me leave Lagos. I drove for four hours and I am driving four hours back. May God give him long life and continued blessings,” Dangote stated.
The business mogul also called for unity and collective responsibility in nation-building, urging Nigerians to support leaders and work towards national progress.
“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, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, commended Badmus for building a reputable business legacy and urged Nigerians to emulate his patriotism and commitment to societal development.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, commissioned a mosque built by Badmus as part of activities marking his 80th birthday celebration in Osogbo.
