President Tinubu Celebrates Ibrahim Babangida on His 84th Birthday
President Bola Tinubu has sent a congratulatory message to former military leader General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.) on his 84th birthday, which was on August 17, 2025.
Highlights of the President's Message
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Babangida as a "statesman" and a "living monument to courage, service, and honour." The President's message highlighted several key aspects of Babangida's legacy:
Infrastructure and Economic Reforms: Tinubu acknowledged Babangida's eight-year rule (1985-1993), recognizing his administration's significant investments in infrastructure, including the construction of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos. He also credited Babangida with implementing economic reforms that helped to liberalize the Nigerian economy.
Creation of National Institutions: The President lauded Babangida for establishing critical 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).
Other Key Achievements: The message also referenced Babangida's role in the creation of new states and the strategic relocation of Nigeria's federal capital from Lagos to Abuja.
Military Career: Tinubu celebrated Babangida's distinguished military career, noting his service as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, a commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, and Chief of Army Staff.
The President concluded his message by thanking Babangida for his "sacrifice and leadership" and praying for his continued health and strength.
