Key Points
- President Bola Tinubu congratulates retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida on his 85th birthday.
- Tinubu says Babangida left lasting marks on Nigeria’s political, economic and geographical landscape.
- He credits the former military leader with establishing infrastructure, agencies and institutions.
- Tinubu says Babangida continues to contribute to national discourse through his counsel.
Main Story
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military Head of State, retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an outstanding Nigerian leader.
Tinubu said Babangida’s military career culminated in his emergence as Nigeria’s leader following the 1985 coup.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday in Abuja.
The president said Babangida had impacted Nigeria in significant ways, leaving enduring marks on the country’s political, economic and geographical landscape.
“Like him or not, former President Babangida impacted Nigeria in ways no other leader has. His eight-year reign left enduring marks on our political, economic, and geographic landscape,” Tinubu said.
He said Babangida expanded Nigeria’s economy, established enduring infrastructure and created agencies and institutions that continued to serve the national interest.
Tinubu also credited Babangida’s foresight, wisdom and sense of equity with contributing to the creation of several states in the federation.
The president said Babangida’s name and legacy would remain indelible in Nigeria’s history because of his contributions to national development.
He also acknowledged Babangida’s continued contribution to national discourse despite his retirement from public life.
“Even in retirement, living a quiet life at my Minna Hilltop residence in Niger State, General Babangida continues to offer valuable counsel and guidance to the nation.
“His advice and wise counsel remain an inspiration to younger generations,” Tinubu said.
The president wished the former military leader continued good health, strength and many more years of service to the nation.
The Issues
Tinubu’s tribute focused on Babangida’s impact on Nigeria’s political, economic and geographical development during his years in power.
What’s Being Said
Tinubu said Babangida’s contributions remained significant and that his counsel continued to offer value to the nation.
What’s Next
Tinubu wished Babangida continued good health, renewed strength and many more years of service to the country.
Bottom Line
Tinubu described Babangida as a leader whose contributions left lasting marks on Nigeria and whose counsel remains relevant to younger generations.
