President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on the occasion of his 84th birthday.
In a message released by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, August 17, the President said he was pleased to celebrate with the former leader’s family, friends, and associates, noting that Babangida’s eight years in power left a significant mark on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
The statement praised Babangida’s decorated military career, highlighting his contributions as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, head of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and eventually Chief of Army Staff.
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Reflecting on his administration, Tinubu remarked, “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.”
The former head of state also initiated the creation of important national agencies, including the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Federal Road Safety Corps.
Tinubu further acknowledged Babangida’s role in establishing new states and overseeing the relocation of the nation’s capital from Lagos to Abuja.
He offered prayers for Babangida’s well-being, asking Almighty Allah to continue to strengthen him and grant him many more years in good health.