‘I am writing biography, not history; and the most brilliant exploits do not always manifest a man’s virtue or vice so well as a slight thing, a word or a jest, which often tells us more of his character than a siege where ten thousand die.’

Nigerian politician Peter Obi is turning 65 today. As we celebrate his milestone birthday, it's interesting to dive into the little-known aspects of his life, beyond the public speeches and high-profile positions.

According to Valentine Obienyem, Obi's Greek biographer, one can better understand Alexander, a historical figure of great conquests, by analyzing his everyday habits and seemingly insignificant moments. The same approach can be applied to understanding Obi, and that's exactly what we'll do today.

As a young man, Obi was known for his dancing skills and charming personality. He even caught the eye of a young woman who was a part of his cousin's wedding convoy, and she was surprised to learn that the man she thought was a poor stranger was actually a wealthy entrepreneur.

Obi's love for business started early. He was involved in trading while still in primary school and has continued to pursue it ever since. His ability to identify opportunities and seize them has been a hallmark of his career. He even sold his Peugeot 505 to finance a business venture that he had been contemplating.

In 1987, Obi made a significant investment by purchasing his first house in London outright, without a mortgage. This shows us that even at a young age, he had a clear sense of discipline and financial planning.

Today, Obi is known for his austere public figure, but his past is full of stories that reveal a more carefree and enthusiastic individual. He began trading while still in primary school and has pursued it almost continuously ever since.

One story from those years illustrates this remarkably well. Obi was driving some friends, including his then-girlfriend, in his newly acquired Peugeot 505 when a group of admirers stopped to inspect the car and eventually asked whether it was for sale. Realising that the proceeds could finance a business venture he had been contemplating, Obi sold the car there and then. His astonished companions completed their journey by public transport, while Obi, within forty-eight hours, was on a flight to London to pursue the opportunity.

His long-time friend, Mr. Benji Uba, recalls another revealing episode from the 1980s when both of them travelled to London on business. They stayed with a family friend who would often give them money to run errands and ask them to keep the change as young men struggling to find their feet and yet to afford the luxury of staying in hotels. Then came the surprise. Very soon, in 1987, Obi stunned everyone by purchasing his first house in London outright, without a mortgage.

And so, as we celebrate Peter Obi's 65th birthday today, let's not forget the man behind the public figure. His quirky habits and seemingly insignificant moments reveal a character that is full of surprises and unexpected depth.