By Jonathan Nda-Isaiah, Samson Elijah, Abu Nmodu, Khalid Idris Doya
President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (rtd), elder statesman and former military President, on his 85th birthday on 17 August 2026.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described General Babangida as an outstanding leader whose remarkable military career culminated in his leadership of the nation following the 1985 coup.
President Tinubu remarked, “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.
“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 noted that General Babangida’s name and legacy would remain indelible in Nigeria’s history because of his many contributions to national development.
“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”, the President said.
“I wish you continued grace, good health, and renewed strength. May Almighty Allah keep you with us for many more years to come,” the President added.
Former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida marked his 85th birthday with special prayers attended by just a small circle of family and friends.
The special prayers were presided over by the Chief Imam of Minna centre Mosque, Malam Jibrin Isah, at his hilltop Residence.
The Chief Imam prayed for the former Nigerian leader’s good health and extolled his leadership qualities and sacrifices for the country and the society at large.
Similarly, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago lauded the Former Military President for his bravery and charisma in decision-making, especially during his leadership, which has helped in stabilising the country.
He showered encomium on Nigeria’s former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, describing him as an elder statesman who is visionary, patriotic, dogged, and an exemplary leader.
The Governor maintained that, under the leadership of IBBU, policies were initiated that brought remarkable development, which continues to bear good fruit to date.
He said Babangida had remained focused and consistent for decades after his active service, providing wise counsel for the continuous development of society.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, congratulated former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 85th birthday, describing him as one of the most consequential figures in Nigeria’s political and military history.
The Governor, in a congratulatory message issued on Monday by his media aide, Mukhtar Gidado, said Babangida’s decades of military and public service had left an indelible mark on the nation.
Governor Bala acknowledged the immense responsibilities shouldered by the former military President during a particularly challenging period in Nigeria’s history, marked by complex political, economic and social circumstances.
He noted that, irrespective of differing perspectives on various chapters of the nation’s history, Babangida’s contributions to the Nigerian state and his generation’s efforts towards national unity, stability and development remained significant and worthy of historical reflection.
Also, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has congratulated former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an elder statesman whose life and service occupy an important place in Nigeria’s contemporary history.
