President Tinubu Sends Birthday Message to General Ibrahim Babangida
- President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military president Ibrahim Babangida on his 84th birthday
- Tinubu praised Babangida’s military career and recalled his role in economic reforms, state creation and building of the Third Mainland Bridge
- The President also commended him for establishing key security agencies and prayed for his continued health and long life
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), on the occasion of his 84th birthday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president rejoiced with the family, friends and associates of the retired general.
Source: Twitter
He described Babangida as a leader whose eight-year rule left a strong imprint on Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
Tinubu hailed a valiant former head of state
Tinubu paid tribute to the retired general’s distinguished service in the Nigerian Army, where he rose through the ranks to hold senior command positions.
These included instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, head of the Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and later Chief of Army Staff.
Reflecting on Babangida’s years in office, Tinubu said his administration would be remembered for significant reforms and infrastructure projects.
He pointed to the construction of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos and economic liberalisation policies that reshaped the national economy.
IBB lauded for founding SSS, NIA, FRSC
The statement also noted Babangida’s role in founding major security and safety institutions such as the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency and Federal Road Safety Corps.
Source: Getty Images
In addition, his administration oversaw the creation of states and the relocation of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja.
President Tinubu thanked the former leader for his contributions to nation building and acknowledged the sacrifices made during his years in service. He prayed for Babangida’s continued good health, strength and long life.
General Babangida, often referred to as IBB, ruled Nigeria between 1985 and 1993. His tenure remains one of the most defining eras in the nation’s modern history, marked by ambitious reforms and controversial political decisions.
Why history will be kind to ex-military president
Recently, Legit.ng reported that the Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida rtd, as he clocks 84 on Sunday, August 17.
Olowu, in a statement made available to Legit.ng, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
"IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today," the monarch stated.
"His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria."
June 12: IBB apologises to Abiola family
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Lekan Abiola, one of the sons of the late Moshood Abiola, confirmed that Babangida had apologised for annulling the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Speaking on Thursday, June 12, at the MKO Abiola Memorial Symposium in Lagos, Lekan revealed that Babangida had previously extended a private apology to the Abiola family, but had now made his admission public.
Addressing journalists during the event, Lekan explained that the family felt a sense of relief following Babangida’s acknowledgement.
Source: Legit.ng
