‘No Nigerian Leader Shaped The Nation Like Him’ – Tinubu Hails IBB at 85

• Tinubu celebrates former military Head of State Ibrahim Babangida on his 85th birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most consequential leaders.

• President says Babangida’s eight-year rule left unmatched political, economic and geographical footprints across the country.

• Tinubu credits the former military ruler with expanding the economy, creating enduring institutions and facilitating state creation.

• Tinubu says former military President continues to shape national discourse through his counsel despite retiring from active public life.

August 17, () — President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former military Head of State, retired General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), on his 85th birthday, declaring that no Nigerian leader has shaped the country’s political, economic and geographical landscape more profoundly than the elder statesman.

Tinubu made the remarks in a goodwill message issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in which he paid glowing tribute to Babangida’s years in office and his continued contributions to national development.

The President said Babangida’s distinguished military career culminated in his emergence as Nigeria’s leader following the 1985 military coup, noting that his administration introduced reforms and institutions whose impact continues to resonate decades after he left power.

According to Tinubu, Babangida’s eight-year reign fundamentally transformed the country’s political and economic trajectory, making him one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s post-independence history.

“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,” the President said.

Tinubu commended the former military ruler for expanding the nation’s economy, establishing institutions that have stood the test of time and executing policies that continue to advance the national interest.

He also credited Babangida with demonstrating foresight, equity and fairness in the creation of additional states, arguing that many parts of today’s federation owe their existence to decisions taken during his administration.

“But for his foresight, wisdom, and sense of equity and fairness, many states in the federation might not exist today,” Tinubu stated.

The President said Babangida’s name would remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s history because of his enduring contributions to governance and national development.

Tinubu further acknowledged the retired general’s continued relevance in national affairs, noting that although he has withdrawn from active public life and resides quietly at his Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State, he still offers valuable guidance on issues affecting the country.

“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,” he added.

President Tinubu prayed for Babangida’s continued good health, strength, and longevity.

“I wish you continued grace, good health, and renewed strength. May Almighty Allah keep you with us for many more years to come,” Tinubu said.

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Background

General Ibrahim Babangida ruled Nigeria as military Head of State from August 1985 to August 1993. His administration introduced the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), carried out major economic and institutional reforms, created several states and local government areas, and established agencies that remain operational today.

His tenure, however, remains one of the most controversial in Nigeria’s history, particularly because of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest polls ever conducted in the country.

Despite the enduring debate over his legacy, President Tinubu said, Babangida remains one of Nigeria’s most influential former leaders and continues to attract national attention on major political and governance issues.