President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Nigeria’s former military head of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd), as he celebrates his 85th birthday on Monday, August 17, 2026.
In an official press statement released on Monday morning from the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu described the former leader as an elder statesman whose legacy remains indelibly woven into the nation’s history.
The tribute was issued on behalf of the administration by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Extolling the elder statesman popularly known as “IBB,” President Tinubu commended Babangida’s bold structural policies, visionary institutional development, and nation-building efforts following his assumption of power in 1985.
“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,” President Tinubu noted.
“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 further recognized Babangida’s ongoing contributions to national unity and governance, emphasizing that the retired General continues to play a vital consultative role in Nigerian politics.
Even in quiet retirement at his iconic Hilltop Residence in Minna, Niger State, General Babangida routinely hosts political leaders and provides steady counsel on national affairs.
President Tinubu concluded his birthday tribute with prayers for the former military ruler’s continued strength;“I wish you continued grace, good health, and renewed strength. May Almighty Allah keep you with us for many more years to come.”
