President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), on the occasion of his 84th birthday.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president described Babangida as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political evolution, whose contributions continue to shape the nation’s trajectory.
Celebrating a Military Career of Distinction
Tinubu recounted Babangida’s illustrious career in the Nigerian Army, noting his service as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment and Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and ultimately, Chief of Army Staff.
Legacy of Governance and Reforms
The president further highlighted key legacies of Babangida’s administration, including:
- Major infrastructure projects, such as the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.
- Economic reforms that liberalised and opened up the Nigerian economy.
- Establishment of critical national security institutions such as the State Security Service (SSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
- Founding of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
- Creation of new states and the historic relocation of the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja.
Prayers for Long Life
Tinubu prayed for Babangida’s continued good health, strength, and long life, while urging Nigerians to reflect on the enduring impact of his leadership.
