An archival photograph featuring former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has resurfaced online, triggering a wave of discussion among Nigerians on social media. The image, taken during the 2005 G8 Summit in Gleneagles, Scotland, captures Obasanjo speaking while Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President George W. Bush stand behind him.
Nigeria on the World Stage
The picture has become a talking point regarding the level of global influence Nigeria wielded during Obasanjo’s presidency. In the image, the former Nigerian leader is seen actively engaging in the proceedings, with the leaders of two of the world’s most powerful nations appearing to listen intently from behind him.
Observers have noted that the positioning of these world leaders underscores the weight of Obasanjo’s contributions at the time, particularly during critical deliberations on international security, economic growth, and cooperation.
Netizens React
The photo’s return to the public eye has prompted many to compare the diplomatic standing of that era with the current situation, with some expressing nostalgia and others offering critical political commentary.
Stephen Adinoyi reacted:
“Now, Tinubu will be at the back!”
Adiri Stephen Chukwunonye said:
“You know you’re finished when your throwback is better than your present.”
DE Frankest commented:
“So if all these world leaders as seen in this photo stood behind our then president Obasanjo, who then was he addressing?”
Umar Limanko asked:
“So Putin has been President of Russia since 2005 till now.”
Ikechukwu Obi Umar Limanko replied:
“Constitutional amendment, will be President for the next 25yrs at least.”
Eric Uchenna Chimara stated:
“Follow. Since APC took over power, things changed.”
Chichi Agbara Ogbo Governor said:
“There was a country!”
Odurukwe Finecountry reacted:
“A fall from grace.”
Ugochukwu Ashiwe commented:
“Plain truth. The quality of our rulership declined terribly with PMB, the worst president Nigeria ever had.”
