Chairman, ICAD 2025
Former President of Nigeria (1999–2007) | Former Military Head of State (1976–1979) | African Union Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is a veteran Nigerian statesman whose leadership has profoundly shaped Nigeria’s democratic trajectory and Africa’s peace processes. He served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1976 to 1979, overseeing a return to civilian rule, and later as the democratically elected President from 1999 to 2007, Nigeria’s first to transition power peacefully to a successor.

Obasanjo’s presidency was marked by efforts to consolidate democracy, implement economic reforms, fight corruption, and promote regional stability. As Chairperson of the African Union’s Panel of the Wise and a key mediator in African conflicts, he has played critical roles in peacebuilding across the continent.

Currently, Obasanjo serves as the African Union Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, where he facilitates dialogue and conflict resolution in one of Africa’s most volatile regions. He is also an influential author and advocate for good governance, democratic deepening, and African unity.