Tinubu Hails Former Military President Babangida at 84
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated former military head of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), on the occasion of his 84th birthday, describing him as a leader whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s history.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu celebrated the retired general’s remarkable journey through the military, where he rose from instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy to commanding key units such as the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, the Armoured Corps, and ultimately serving as Chief of Army Staff before becoming head of state.
The President commended Babangida’s record in governance, recalling his role in expanding the country’s infrastructure, most notably the construction of the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos. He also highlighted the establishment of critical national institutions during his tenure, including the State Security Service (SSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Tinubu further noted Babangida’s hand in relocating Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja and creating new states that reshaped the nation’s federal structure.
He praised his economic policies, which he said helped to open up Nigeria’s economy and laid the groundwork for subsequent reforms.
While acknowledging that Babangida’s era was not without controversy, President Tinubu described him as a statesman whose influence in politics, security, and institution-building remains deeply felt.
“As General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida marks his 84th birthday, I join his family, friends, and well-wishers across the country in celebrating a man who has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s unity and development,” the statement read. “I pray Almighty Allah continues to bless him with good health, strength, and long life.”
Babangida, widely referred to by his initials “IBB,” ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993. His administration is remembered both for ambitious development projects and for the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Despite the mixed legacy, he remains a towering figure in Nigerian political history, and his birthdays often draw tributes from across the political spectrum.
