Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday recalled how Germany worked the diplomatic channel to press for his release from jail under the military regime of late Sani Abacha.

Mr. Obasanjo was speaking at the 40th anniversary of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, a German Non-Governmental Organisation in Nigeria, held at Shehu Musa Yaradua Centre in Abuja.

Mr. Obasanjo said the body was among those that fought for his freedom, recalling how it bestowed on him a Human Right award received on his behalf by his late wife, Stella.

“’I was arrested, put in jail. I would have rotten away, but Friedrich Ebert Stiftung embarked on vigorous campaign towards my release. For me and my family, we shall remain grateful to them,” Mr. Obasanjo stated.

The former president, who was the chairman of the event, said the relationship between Germany and Nigeria had come a long way and has continued to grow‎.

“Nigeria and Germany’s relationship has come a long way. It has gone well in the interest of both countries. Nigeria feels good with the relationship with Germany,” he said.