Former President Goodluck Jonathan has joined Nigerians in honoring General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) as he turned 84 on Sunday.
Jonathan visited the former military leader at his Hilltop home in Minna, describing him as a unifying figure and one of the nation’s most remarkable statesmen.
“We thank God that since independence, this country has produced many leaders, but General Ibrahim Babangida stands out as one who gave his best as a military Head of State. His residence has become like a Mecca for Nigerians from all parts of the country, which speaks volumes about his character,” Jonathan said.
He praised IBB’s broad appeal across the country, noting that, “He is not a sectional leader but one who believes in the unity of Nigeria. He has friends across every corner of the country. We will continue to celebrate him and pray for his long life so that he can keep mentoring the younger generation.”
Jonathan was accompanied on the visit by Segun Showunmi, former Ogun State governorship aspirant and ex-spokesperson to Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 presidential election.
Showunmi also paid tribute to Babangida, highlighting his boldness and foresight.
“God has given Nigeria leaders with the audacity and courage for big ideas, and certainly General Babangida is one of them. We thank God that he is still with us, and we continue to pray for his long life, because his wisdom is always needed at critical stages of our national development,” he said.
Babangida, popularly called IBB, served as Nigeria’s military president from 1985 until 1993.
