As former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, clocks 85, the Northern Senators Forum has hailed him for decisions it described as pivotal to Nigeria’s political restructuring, national integration and administrative development.

 

The forum, in a birthday message signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, said Babangida’s years in power coincided with one of the country’s most challenging periods, but argued that his administration left behind enduring structures that continue to define Nigeria.

 

The senators singled out the creation of 11 states between 1987 and 1989, describing it as a major intervention in Nigeria’s federal structure.

 

Among the states created were Katsina, Jigawa, Taraba, Kebbi, Yobe and Kogi.

 

The forum said the restructuring brought government closer to citizens, expanded political representation and responded to longstanding demands for greater inclusion.

 

The Northern senators also credited Babangida with completing the relocation of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja and inaugurating Abuja as the Federal Capital in 1991.

 

They described the relocation as more than an administrative exercise, saying Abuja was conceived as a neutral and centrally located capital capable of reflecting Nigeria’s diversity.

 

“Today, Abuja stands as a symbol of Nigeria’s unity in diversity,” the forum said.

 

The lawmakers said the capital had become a national meeting point for Nigerians from all regions and a centre for government, diplomacy and economic activity.

 

The Northern Senators Forum said Babangida’s contribution to national development extended beyond individual policies, arguing that his interventions helped shape the federation Nigeria operates today.

 

The forum congratulated the former Head of State and prayed for continued good health, strength and wisdom.

 

It also appealed to him to continue making his experience and counsel available to the country.

 

“Your commitment to national unity, your boldness in restructuring the federation, and your vision in repositioning governance have earned you a place in history,” the senators said.

 

They prayed that Babangida would live to see the emergence of the stable, united and prosperous Nigeria he envisioned.