President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, and former Senate President David Mark yesterday felicitated with former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), as he clocked 84.
In a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu rejoiced with Babangida’s family, friends and associates, praising the former leader’s eight years in power for its impact on Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
He celebrated Babangida’s distinguished military career, which included serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, Commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and Chief of Army Staff.
Tinubu recalled IBB’s stewardship, saying:“His military administration will be remembered for its massive investment in infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, and the reforms that liberalised the Nigerian economy.”
He also noted that Babangida established the State Security Service (SSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others.
The president highlighted Babangida’s role in creating states and relocating the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja, thanking him for his “sacrifice and leadership.” Tinubu prayed God to grant the former leader more years and renewed strength.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in his tribute, said IBB’s life was “worthy of celebration” as 84 years is a milestone in the journey of life.
“As General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, former military President of Nigeria celebrates his 84th birthday anniversary, it’s my honour and privilege to join millions of Nigerians to felicitate with him and his family on this special occasion,” Atiku said.
“It’s difficult to write about Nigeria’s journey to progress and development without a mention of the role that he played in shaping the destiny of Nigeria. In terms of national infrastructure, his legacy is still standing tall despite the passage of time. He gave Nigeria visionary and purposeful leadership. The foundation he laid is worthy of emulation. Babangida is widely respected because of his humble leadership style.”
“As one of those Nigerians privileged to know him closely enough, let me say without any fear of contradictions that it’s impossible to interact with him without being instantly inspired by his erudition, intelligence, and amazing wisdom.”
“His magnanimity and understanding of our national diversity is one of his finest virtues. In fact, even his stubborn critics may automatically change their perception of him once they have the opportunity to meet him. This is a widely held testimony about IBB.”
Atiku further said:“IBB is a household name in Nigeria, and this may not be unconnected with the impact of his leadership. Rarely do I come across a public figure with such broad-based national respectability.”
“No wonder he is perceived as a phenomenon in Nigeria and beyond. He is a military man with democratic disposition, and this is one of the great virtues that define him. Paying tribute to a remarkable leader like IBB is one of the hardest tasks because one may ultimately run out of adjectives to do justice to his shining virtues.”
“The former military President’s recruitment of Nigeria’s best and finest to implement his administration’s policies stands him out as a visionary leader. Ethnic and religious bigotry and bias are alien to his nature. This is one of the finest virtues for which he is widely respected. His commitment to our unity is laudable. Indeed, he is a nation builder.”
“I wish to put on record that IBB is a bold and decisive leader who never hesitated to take difficult decisions. Moreover, he never hesitated to take responsibility for difficult decisions. He didn’t sacrifice his subordinates for his own mistakes. At every point Nigeria faced challenges to its unity and survival, he didn’t hesitate to be part of the efforts to find solutions to those challenges.”
“As one of those who have been inspired by his visionary leadership, I am proud to recall his efforts towards African stability and unity. His role in bringing peace and stability to Liberia is well noted. IBB is respected by AU and ECOWAS leaders on account of his contributions to the stability of Africa. His role in bringing the apartheid system in South Africa to an end is no less remarkable.”
“As IBB marks this remarkable journey of life, may God continue to bless his life with good health and grant him more years in good health and vitality in the service of Nigeria and humanity.”
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said:
“General Babangida has demonstrated bravery and patriotism in ensuring the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria during and after his active service.”
Bago also hailed the IBB Presidential Library, named after his late wife, Dr Maryam Babangida, as a clear indication of his commitment to preserving rich history and promoting education. He said the elder statesman “has written his name in the sands of time through the numerous policies and programmes implemented when he was the Head of State.”
Former Senate President and ADC Chairman, Senator David Mark, described Babangida as “a patriot who believes firmly in the sanctity of one united and indivisible Nigeria.”
He said:“Today is not merely to mark the passage of time, but to celebrate the extraordinary life of a soldier, a patriot, and a statesman who, at 84, stands as a living monument to courage, service, and honour. From the day he first donned the nation’s uniform, General Babangida embodied the creed of duty before self.”
Mark recalled Babangida’s military and political career, saying:
“In the barracks and on the battlefield, he was resolute. In the corridors of policy and leadership, he was wise. His voice carried the weight of experience, yet it was always tempered with humility.”
He added:“Those privileged to serve under Babangida remember not only his tactical brilliance but also his humanity as a leader who could command with firmness yet inspire with compassion.”
Mark stressed that even in retirement, Babangida “has never withdrawn from service to the nation. Instead, he has remained a moral compass in public discourse and an elder statesman whose counsel is sought across political divides.”
“His patriotism was never about the uniform alone, but about a lifelong commitment to the ideals for which he once risked everything. At 84, his medals may have faded in shine, but his legacy gleams brighter than ever.”
For the second time in three weeks, former President Goodluck Jonathan visited Babangida at his Minna hilltop residence to celebrate with him.
After the meeting, Jonathan said:“Babangida stands out as one committed leader that wants the best for this country. He did his best for this country, he did his best as a military head of state. That is why till today his house is like some sort of Mecca. People come here regularly. That tells you a lot about the character of IBB.”
Jonathan further described the elder statesman as “not a sectional leader” whose friends “cut across the entire country.”
“He takes Nigeria, the whole country, as his own. He is one person that we will continue to celebrate.”
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described Babangida as “a voice of wisdom, moderation, and guidance in the nation’s collective journey towards peace, unity and sustainable development.”
He said:“As he marks this milestone, we celebrate not just his years, but also his immense contributions to the evolution of modern Nigeria, particularly through his championing of political and economic reforms. His legacy of service, courage, and vision continues to inspire leaders and citizens alike.”
“At 84, General Babangida remains a vast reservoir of knowledge and experience, inspiring successive generations with his clarity of thought and depth of understanding. I pray that Almighty God grants him many more years in good health, strength, and fulfillment. May this new chapter of his life be marked by peace, joy, and the continued affection of a grateful nation that holds him in high esteem.”
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan, Laleye Dipo
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