President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, as a leader who left indelible marks on Nigeria during his eight years in office.
Tinubu stated this in a congratulatory message to Babangida on Monday to mark the former military leader’s 85th birthday.
The President said Babangida’s administration had a significant impact on Nigeria’s political, economic and geographical development.
According to him, Babangida’s leadership contributed to the expansion of the Nigerian economy, infrastructure development and the establishment of institutions and agencies that have continued to play important roles in the country.
Tinubu also commended the former military President for his role in the creation of states, saying his decisions helped shape Nigeria’s current political structure.
“Like him or not, former President Babangida impacted Nigeria in ways no other leader has. His eight-year reign left enduring marks on our political, economic, and geographic landscape,” Tinubu said.
The President further described Babangida as an elder statesman whose experience and counsel remain valuable to the nation.
He noted that the former military leader had continued to provide guidance to political leaders and younger Nigerians from his residence in Minna, Niger State.
Tinubu wished Babangida good health, strength and many more years, while praying for God’s continued preservation of the former military President.
Babangida became Nigeria’s military Head of State in August 1985 after overthrowing the administration of Major General Muhammadu Buhari. He ruled the country until November 1993.
His administration introduced several major economic and political reforms, including the Structural Adjustment Programme and a transition programme towards civilian rule.
His tenure, however, also remains controversial, particularly over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
The President’s message is part of tributes being paid to Babangida as he marks his 85th birthday.
