General Olusegun Obasanjo
Took over after Murtala's assassination and oversaw the country's transition to civilian rule.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did General Olusegun Obasanjo serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
General Olusegun Obasanjo served as Nigeria's head of government from February 1976 to October 1979.
When was General Olusegun Obasanjo born?
General Olusegun Obasanjo was born on 5 March 1937, which would make he about 89 years old today.
What state is General Olusegun Obasanjo from?
General Olusegun Obasanjo hails from Ogun State in Nigeria's South-West geopolitical zone.
What religion did General Olusegun Obasanjo practise?
General Olusegun Obasanjo is widely identified as a Christian. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Murtala Muhammed
- General Sani Abacha
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Ogun State
- Governor
- Dapo Abiodun
- House of Reps
- 10 members — listed on the Ogun State page