President Bola Tinubu has extended felicitations to former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 84th birthday on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
“The President rejoices with the family, friends, and associates of the former military leader whose eight years of rule greatly impacted Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development,” a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) said.
“President Tinubu celebrates General Babangida’s distinguished military career, which includes serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, Commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and Chief of Army Staff.
“President Tinubu celebrates General Babangida’s distinguished military career, which includes serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, Commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and Chief of Army Staff.
“The President notes Gen. Babangida’s stewardship of the country, saying his military administration will be remembered for its massive investment in infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, and the reforms that liberalised the Nigerian economy.
“The former military leader established the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others.
“President Tinubu also highlights Babangida’s role in creating states and relocating the Federal capital from Lagos to Abuja,” the statement noted.
Tinubu thanked him for his sacrifice and leadership, and prayed for more years and renewed strength for him.
In another development, President Tinubu has sent a message of condolence to the family and associates of business leader, politician, and sports promoter, Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim, who died on Saturday at 88 in Abuja.
Alhaji Ibrahim hailed from Wamba in Nasarawa State.
The late businessman was an influential chieftain of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the Second Republic. During the transition to civil rule in 1998, he joined other notable politicians to form the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
President Tinubu, according to another statement by Onanuga, acknowledged the deceased’s contributions to Nigeria through his chain of businesses, political involvement, and community leadership.
In addition to other ventures, the late statesman founded the Jos-based Mighty Jets Football Club, which flourished for decades.
President Tinubu condoled with the government and the people of Nasarawa State and prayed for the soul of the late maverick politician.
