Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo explains why he returned to school at 77
By Valerian Khakayi, September 24, 2026Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo has opened up about his decision to return to the classroom at the age of 77 to study Christian theology.
The former Nigerian leader said his decision was motivated by a desire to demonstrate that learning has no age limit while also seeking a deeper understanding of God.
Obasanjo pursued his studies at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), having previously obtained a postgraduate diploma in Christian Theology from the institution in 2009.
He later returned to NOUN to pursue a master’s degree in the same field, continuing his academic journey despite being well into his 70s.
Speaking during an interview with comedian and skit maker Isbae U, Obasanjo explained that his decision was not driven solely by the desire to add another qualification to his academic record.
“I went back to school at 77 years old to study Christian theology, to show by example that there’s no age limit to education,” he said.
Obasanjo added that he also wanted to expand his understanding of his faith and strengthen his worship.
“I also wanted to learn more about God so I could worship Him better, and I enjoyed it,” he said.
The former president completed his master’s degree in Christian theology at NOUN in January 2016, when he was 79.
His return to university came years after he had completed his postgraduate diploma, showing his continued interest in theological studies.
Obasanjo has had a long career spanning military service, politics and public leadership. He served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1976 to 1979 before later becoming an elected civilian president.
He served as Nigeria’s president from 1999 to 2007, after which he remained active in public affairs and various international initiatives.
His decision to pursue further education at an advanced age has also been cited as an example of his continued interest in learning beyond formal political leadership.
For Obasanjo, studying Christian theology provided an opportunity to combine his academic interests with his desire to understand his faith more deeply.
The 89-year-old former president said the experience also reinforced his belief that people should continue seeking knowledge regardless of their age.
His account serves as a reminder that returning to education later in life can be driven by personal growth, curiosity and a desire to explore new areas of knowledge.