Tinubu Celebrates Babangida at 85, Hails His Contributions to Nigeria


 

By Abdulahi Musa 


President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd.), on his 85th birthday, describing him as an elder statesman whose leadership left a significant imprint on Nigeria’s political and socio-economic development.


Babangida, popularly known as IBB, turned 85 on Monday. He governed Nigeria as military president between 1985 and 1993 after overthrowing the regime of Muhammadu Buhari in a palace coup.


In a birthday message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu acknowledged the former military ruler’s enduring influence on the country, despite the controversies surrounding his administration.


The President said Babangida’s eight-year tenure significantly shaped Nigeria’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.


Tinubu credited the Babangida administration with expanding the national economy, developing major infrastructure and establishing institutions and agencies that continue to contribute to Nigeria’s development.


He also highlighted the creation of additional states during Babangida’s tenure, describing the exercise as an expression of foresight and a commitment to fairness in the distribution of administrative structures across the country.


According to Tinubu, Babangida’s influence has extended beyond his years in office, noting that the former leader has continued to provide counsel and guidance on national issues since retiring to his Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State.


The President described Babangida’s continued contribution to national discourse as an inspiration to younger generations.


Tinubu prayed for the former military leader’s continued good health, strength and longevity, wishing him many more years of life.


Babangida’s administration remains one of the most consequential and controversial periods in Nigeria’s political history. His tenure witnessed major infrastructure projects, including the Third Mainland Bridge, economic liberalisation policies and the creation of additional states.


However, his administration is also remembered for the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, a decision that triggered widespread political unrest and remains one of the most debated episodes in Nigeria’s democratic history.

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