President Bola Tinubu has described former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), as a consequential Nigerian leader whose eight-year tenure left enduring imprints on the country’s political, economic and geographical landscape.

Also, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Babangida to continue praying for Nigeria as the country heads towards the 2027 general elections.

According to him, “85 candles will never be adequate in celebrating the birth anniversary of one of Nigeria’s most senior citizens, patriot and statesman of the calibre of former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd).”

Tinubu, in a birthday message congratulating Babangida, who turned 85 yesterday, described him as an elder statesman whose contributions to national development remained significant.

According to the president, Babangida’s leadership produced far-reaching changes in the country, including the expansion of the economy, development of critical infrastructure and establishment of institutions and agencies that continue to serve national interests.

“Like him or not, former President Babangida impacted Nigeria in ways no other leader has,” Tinubu said. “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.”
These contributions, he stated, had secured him an enduring place in Nigeria’s history, his influence continuing beyond his years in office.

Tinubu particularly acknowledged the former military president’s continued role as an elder statesman, saying that even in his quiet life at retirement, “Babangida continues to offer valuable counsel and guidance to the nation. His advice and wise counsel remain an inspiration to younger generations.”

Tinubu wished him continued good health, strength and longevity.

The 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a tribute on his official X handle yesterday to mark IBB’s 85th birthday, thanked him for his “sacrifice and love of country,” citing his role in keeping Nigeria united, his investments in infrastructure and socio-economic development, and his decision to move the nation’s capital from Lagos to Abuja.

Atiku also lauded IBB’s mentoring of younger leaders, describing him as someone who “planted the nation-building trees that are currently providing shade to generations of Nigerian leaders.”