Tinubu, Atiku Hail Babangida @84

By PHC Telegraph

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, describing him as a leader who worked tirelessly while in office to provide infrastructure across the country.

Celebrating Babangida at 84, Tinubu said the nation would remain grateful to the former military dictator for the sacrifices he made to ensure the unity of the country.

According to a statement issued by a senior aide to the president, Bayo Onanuga, “The President rejoices with the family, friends, and associates of the former military leader whose eight years of rule greatly impacted Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.

“President Tinubu celebrates General Babangida’s distinguished military career, which includes serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, 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 further acknowledged Babangida’s devotion and commitment, stating that his administration “will be remembered for its massive investment in infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, and the reforms that liberalised the Nigerian economy.”

Recall that the former military leader who annulled the June 12 election believed to be the freest and fairest, established  agencies and establishment like the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

The records equally indicate that Babangida known as “Maradona” moved the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja and created a number of states which are helping to drive growth at the subregional level.

While thanking him for his sacrifice and leadership, the President prayed that Allah would grant the former military leader more years and renewed strength.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has felicitated with the former military strongman.

He said in a statement he put out on X, “IBB’s life is indeed worthy of celebration. Eighty four years is a milestone in the journey of life, and in every aspect of this journey, IBB has distinguished himself remarkably.”

Atiku observed that it would be “difficult to write about Nigeria’s journey to progress and development without a mention of the role that he (IBB) played in shaping the destiny of Nigeria.

“In terms of national infrastructure, his legacy is still standing tall despite the passage of time. He gave Nigeria visionary and purposeful leadership. The foundation he laid is worthy of emulation.”

“As one of those Nigerians privileged to know him closely enough”, Atiku said, “let me say without any fear of contradictions that it’s impossible to interact with him without being instantly inspired by his erudition, intelligence, and amazing wisdom.”