President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 84th birthday today.
In a statement yesterday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president rejoiced with Babangida’s family, friends, and associates, whose eight years of rule greatly impacted Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
Tinubu celebrated Gen. Babangida’s distinguished military career, which included serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and chief of army staff.
The president noted Gen. Babangida’s stewardship of the country, saying 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 military leader established the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others.
President Tinubu also highlighted Babangida’s role in creating states and relocating the federal capital from Lagos to Abuja.
While thanking him for his sacrifice and leadership, the president prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the former military leader more years and renewed strength.
