President Bola Tinubu, Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has congratulated former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), as he marks his 84th birthday today.
In their separate congratulatory messages on Sunday, the Nigerian leaders praised IBB for his impactful contribution to the nation’s socio-economic and political development.
President Tinubu, while congratulating the former Military President, said his military administration would be remembered for its massive investment in infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, and the reforms that liberalised the Nigerian economy.
“The former military leader established the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others,” he added.
President Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also highlighted Babangida’s role in creating states and relocating the Federal capital from Lagos to Abuja.
While thanking him for his sacrifice and leadership, the President prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the former military leader more years and renewed strength.
Also congratulating Gen. Babangida, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, said eighty-four years is a milestone in the journey of life, and in every aspect of this journey, IBB has distinguished himself remarkably. Describing him as a nation builder, whose commitment to unity is laudable.
“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,” he noted.
Atiku said “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,” he wrote on his X handle.
On his part, Governor Alia of Benue State, described the former leader’s 84 years as those of outstanding accomplishments and great personal fulfilment, stressing that attaining such an age shows God’s grace, benevolence and mercies.
Alia, in a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, acknowledged the historical role the former military President has played in shaping the political and economic development of the country.
He prayed for more of God’s sustenance and strength for the Octogenarian.
