Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared why he picked Sule Lamido to be Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister when he took office in 1999.

Obasanjo revealed that the person originally chosen for the position was close to Lamido but later declined the offer. Because of that, he had to find someone else and decided on Lamido.

He made these remarks while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour during the launch of Sule Lamido’s book Be True to Yourself in Abuja.

Obasanjo said he admired Lamido’s character. He pointed out that Lamido was one of the few ministers who could boldly speak the truth, even to those in power.

He also explained how leadership roles were shared at the time. His team agreed that his candidate would be vice president while the chairman’s candidate would handle foreign affairs. But when the chairman’s choice declined, Obasanjo had to make the decision himself.

He chose Lamido because he was close to the original candidate and had the right qualities for the job. Obasanjo also shared a story about asking all his ministers to submit undated resignation letters. This was to avoid issues if a minister needed to leave. Lamido, however, refused to submit the letter. He told Obasanjo that he never asked for the job and promised not to fail. Obasanjo agreed—and never needed a resignation from him.

During the book launch, Sule Lamido thanked Obasanjo and all the dignitaries who attended the event.

He expressed his deep appreciation for Obasanjo’s support since 1999. He was especially grateful for the kind foreword Obasanjo wrote in his book and his presence at the launch.

Lamido ended his speech by praying for Obasanjo, asking God to bless him with good health, wisdom, and happiness.

The Daily Post also noted that Lamido’s 487-page book includes a story about what he told then military president General Ibrahim Babangida in 1993 about the annulled June 12 election, which was believed to have been won by Moshood Abiola.