Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo revealed his direct involvement in securing passage of the Land Use Act despite significant opposition. He detailed employing a strategy of extensive consultations and what he termed “village diplomacy” to address concerns at the grassroots level. Obasanjo personally engaged with communities to explain the benefits of the Act and garner support. This intervention proved crucial in overcoming resistance from various stakeholders who initially opposed the legislation. The Land Use Act, a landmark piece of legislation, aimed to reform land ownership and management in Nigeria. Obasanjo’s account highlights the importance of local engagement in navigating complex policy changes and achieving national consensus. He emphasized that direct communication with citizens was key to its ultimate success.