PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to elder statesman and former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), as he marks his 85th birthday on August 17, 2026.
News Point Nigeria reports that Tinubu described General Babangida as an outstanding leader whose remarkable military career culminated in his leadership of the nation following the 1985 coup.
The President’s congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, on Sunday.
President Tinubu said, “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.”
He said Babangida expanded the nation’s economy, established lasting infrastructure and created several agencies and institutions that continue to serve the national interest.
“He expanded the nation’s economy, established lasting infrastructure, and created several agencies and institutions that continue to serve the national interest. But for his foresight, wisdom, and sense of equity and fairness, many states in the federation might not exist today,” the President said.
Tinubu noted that General Babangida’s name and legacy would remain indelible in Nigeria’s history because of his many contributions to national development.
The President also said that even in retirement, while living a quiet life at his Minna Hilltop residence in Niger State, Babangida continued to offer valuable counsel and guidance to the nation.
“Even in retirement, living a quiet life at his Minna Hilltop residence in Niger State, General Babangida continues to offer valuable counsel and guidance to the nation. His advice and wise counsel remain an inspiration to younger generations,” Tinubu said.
The President wished the former military leader continued grace, good health and renewed strength, while praying for Almighty Allah to keep him for many more years.
“I wish you continued grace, good health, and renewed strength. May Almighty Allah keep you with us for many more years to come,” Tinubu added.
