By Desmond Mgboh (Kano), Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye (Abuja), John Adams (Minna), Jude Owuamanam (Jos),
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, for his endeavours towards the development of the nation, especially in the area of infrastructure projects, notably the completion of the Third Mainland Bridge, which at one time was the longest bridge in Africa.
In a message to Babangida, who marked his 83rd birthday yesterday, the President acknowledged the role of Gen. Babangida in the sculpting of modern Nigeria, and commended him for his services to the nation.
Fondly known as IBB, Babangida was the military head of state from 1985 to 1993.
In a goodwill message to Babangida, Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatization and former Governor of Abia State, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, praised him for his contributions to nation building in various capacities, describing Babangida as a “highly detribalised Nigerian with passion for a united and prosperous Nigeria.”
The former governor emphasized that the former president “is an accomplished statesman who is committed to national wellbeing” and applauded his giant strides in and out of public office.
Kalu said further: “The former president having served the country in various positions diligently should be applauded for his giant accomplishments in public service. During his tenure as president, Nigeria witnessed robust infrastructural development and creation of more states to accelerate development.
“The former president is a rallying point for his contemporaries and the younger generation. Leaders will continue to tap from the wealth of experience of Babangida.”
Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in a message extended his heartfelt congratulations to Babangida, who he said is “a bridge-builder, a committed patriot, and a charismatic statesman.”
He praised the elder statesman for his courage, vision, and exemplary leadership, noting that his wise counsel continues to guide and inspire the new generation of leaders.
“General Babangida is a true asset to Nigeria, a source of inspiration for both established and emerging leaders owing to his distinguished military and democratic credentials, steadfastness, and remarkable statesmanship,” the governor, adding, “As a former leader and elder statesman, you have consistently made yourself available to the younger generation, offering your wealth of experience, guidance, and wisdom in critical moments.”
Governor of Niger State, Babangida’s home state, Rt Hon Mohammed Umaru Bago, described the former military president, as a patriotic elder statesman and an embodiment of honour who has served the country diligently, saying that he is a true patriot and nationalist who has made a tremendous impact in shaping the nation’s history.
He said that IBB has been consistent in offering advice towards the stability of the country adding, “your selfless service to the country by ensuring peace, unity, stability and progress of the nation as well as the wellbeing of citizens is highly recommendable.”
Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in a messaged signed by his
Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, described the former Head of State as a revered statesman and a national icon whose contributions have profoundly shaped the trajectory of Nigeria. He acknowledged Gen. Babangida’s far-reaching influence on the nation through various transformative interventions.
Mutfwang highlighted the General’s exemplary leadership and strategic vision, noting that his tenure as military Head of State left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history through landmark economic reforms, political restructuring, social advancements, infrastructural development, and impactful foreign policy initiatives.