President Bola Tinubu has extended his warm greetings to former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (Rtd), as he marks his 84th birthday today.
In a statement from the State House, President Tinubu paid tribute to Babangida’s influence on Nigeria’s development during his eight years in office, describing his leadership as one that left a lasting imprint on the country’s political and economic framework.
The President acknowledged the retired General’s decorated military career, including his time as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy and as Chief of Army Staff. He noted Babangida’s leadership of key military units and praised his strategic acumen in national defense.
Highlighting the former president’s achievements, Tinubu pointed to landmark infrastructure projects like the Third Mainland Bridge and significant reforms that opened up Nigeria’s economy to private enterprise.
He also credited Babangida for establishing major national institutions such as the State Security Service (SSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
President Tinubu further recognized Babangida’s role in the creation of new states and the historic move of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja—two decisions that have shaped Nigeria’s federal structure.
“As a leader and statesman, General Babangida’s contributions to the Nigerian state are deeply woven into the fabric of our national journey,” Tinubu said.
He concluded with prayers for the former leader’s continued health and strength.
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