The Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Peter Obi has paid tribute to veteran entertainer Charly Boy and renowned environmentalist and explorer Newton Jibunoh, describing both men as exceptional Nigerians whose lives and contributions continue to inspire hope for a better nation.
Obi shared the tribute in a post on X after attending the launch of 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy in Lagos on Thursday and visiting the newly established Newton Jibunoh Centre and Museum in Asaba on Friday.
Reflecting on his experience at the book launch, Obi said Charly Boy’s public image often overshadows the qualities that define him as a person.
“Charly Boy is one of those people many may easily dismiss because of his appearance or the public persona he projects. But beyond that is Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, a thoughtful intellectual, a compassionate human being, and a patriot deeply committed to building a better society for all.”
Obi also commended the entertainer’s efforts to promote men’s health through his foundation, noting that Charly Boy had turned his personal battle with prostate cancer into an advocacy campaign.
“What particularly inspired me was the work he is doing through his foundation to promote men’s health. Having survived prostate cancer himself, he has chosen to transform his personal experience into a campaign for awareness, early detection, and improved access to treatment. Good health remains one of the most critical foundations of a productive and progressive society, and I am committed to supporting this noble cause.”
The former Anambra State governor later travelled to Asaba, where he visited the newly established Newton Jibunoh Centre and Museum.
Although he said he was unable to attend Jibunoh’s Mandela Day programme, themed “Poverty and Inequality Are in Our Hands,” Obi stressed that paying the veteran explorer a visit was important.
Speaking about Jibunoh, Obi described him as one of Nigeria’s living legends whose life story reflects courage, resilience and patriotism.
“My dear Father, Newton Jibunoh, remains one of Nigeria’s living icons. He is a man whose stories, experiences, and wisdom can keep you listening for hours without fatigue.
“His remarkable road expeditions across the Sahara Desert to London, beginning in 1967 and repeated in 2000, 2008, and subsequent years, are enduring testimonies to courage, resilience, determination, and an adventurous spirit.”
According to Obi, Jibunoh’s expeditions also serve as a reminder of an era when travelling across Nigeria and other parts of Africa was considerably safer.
“His extraordinary journeys also remind us of a period when travelling across Nigeria and beyond was far safer than it is today.
“Listening to him always leaves me reflecting on how much we have lost as a nation and how much work still lies ahead if we are to rebuild a secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria.”
