President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), on his 84th birthday, recognising the lasting influence of his leadership on Nigeria’s political and socio-economic trajectory.
In a statement released on Sunday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined Babangida’s family, associates, and the wider nation in celebrating a figure he described as a leader whose eight-year administration left a defining imprint on the country.
The message recounted Babangida’s distinguished military career, which spanned roles as instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, 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.
Reflecting on Babangida’s tenure between 1985 and 1993, Tinubu recalled reforms and wide-ranging infrastructural investments that reshaped the nation. He pointed to the construction of the Third Mainland Bridge as one of the administration’s most enduring projects, alongside the liberalisation policies that transformed Nigeria’s economy.
The statement further noted Babangida’s role in establishing key 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). His government was also responsible for the creation of new states and the landmark relocation of Nigeria’s Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja.
President Tinubu conveyed his appreciation for Babangida’s contributions to national development, praying for his continued health and strength. He observed that the former leader’s vision and reforms remain influential in shaping Nigeria’s governance, security, and infrastructure decades after his time in office.
“General Babangida’s contributions remain an enduring testament to commitment, strategic foresight, and national development,” the statement concluded.
