Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Sunday held a heartfelt memorial service in honor of his late friend, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Obasanjo, speaking at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, described Carter as a “titan and man of peace.” Carter, who served as the 39th President of the United States and won the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian efforts, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia.
Reflecting on their relationship, Obasanjo recounted how Carter intervened to save his life during his imprisonment under the late Nigerian Head of State, General Sani Abacha. He revealed that Carter personally visited Abacha to plead for his release, successfully negotiating his transfer from prison to house arrest on his farm. However, the house arrest was short-lived. Obasanjo expressed gratitude, saying, “President Carter was one of my foreign friends who stuck their necks out to save my life. He was the only non-African leader to visit Abacha specifically to plead for my freedom.”
Obasanjo further recalled how Carter shared with him the efforts of American entrepreneur Ted Turner, founder of CNN, in advocating for his release. According to Obasanjo, Carter relayed Turner’s offer to care for him and his family if he were freed. Deeply moved, Obasanjo visited Turner to express his gratitude. He described this gesture as one of the most touching moments of his life, highlighting the compassion and commitment of Carter and Turner.
In a tribute titled “Jimmy Carter: The Departure of a Titan,” Obasanjo drew parallels between their lives, noting their shared humble beginnings in farming families, strong moral upbringing, and military backgrounds. He also highlighted their joint efforts in addressing global issues such as apartheid and colonialism during his time as Nigeria’s military Head of State. Obasanjo praised Carter’s leadership style, emphasizing his humility, collaborative approach, and commitment to service. While mourning the loss of a true friend, Obasanjo expressed hope of reuniting with Carter in paradise. “I will miss him greatly, but I know we shall meet again,” he concluded.