President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 85th birthday, describing the former Nigerian leader as an elder statesman whose influence remains deeply connected to the country’s history.
Babangida, popularly known as IBB, turned 85 on Monday, Aug. 17, marking another milestone in the life of a military officer who played a major role in Nigeria’s political and economic development during his years in power.
In a birthday message signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised Babangida’s military career and his leadership of Nigeria after the 1985 coup that brought him to power.
“Like him or not, former President Babangida impacted Nigeria in ways no other leader has,” Tinubu said, adding that Babangida’s eight-year administration left lasting marks on the country’s political, economic and geographical landscape.
Tinubu credited Babangida with helping expand the economy, developing infrastructure and establishing institutions and agencies that continue to play roles in national affairs.
The president also highlighted Babangida’s role in the creation of states across Nigeria, saying his decisions helped shape the country’s present political structure.
Babangida ruled Nigeria from 1985 until 1993, a period that remains one of the most significant and controversial chapters in the country’s modern political history. His administration introduced major economic reforms while also overseeing important political changes.
One of the defining events of his rule was the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as having been won by businessman and politician Moshood Kashimawo Abiola. Babangida annulled the election, a decision that triggered widespread protests and remains a major subject in Nigeria’s political history.
In retirement, Babangida has maintained a relatively low public profile at his residence in Minna, Niger State. Tinubu said the former leader continues to provide advice and guidance as an elder statesman.
The president wished Babangida good health, strength and many more years, while acknowledging the former military ruler’s continuing place in Nigeria’s national conversation.
Babangida’s 85th birthday has also drawn messages from other Nigerian leaders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and several state governors, reflecting the former military president’s enduring prominence in the country’s political history.
