Information Minister Hails IBB at 85, Praises Commitment to United Nigeria

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has felicitated former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an elder statesman whose years of service remain significant to Nigeria’s political history.

Idris, in a statement issued on Monday, said Babangida’s career in the military, his years as Nigeria’s Head of State and his subsequent role as an elder statesman had placed him among prominent figures who shaped the country’s political and institutional development.

Babangida, popularly known as IBB, was born on August 17, 1941, in Minna, Niger State. He became Nigeria’s Military President in August 1985 and remained in office until August 1993.

His eight-year administration introduced major political and economic policies, including the Structural Adjustment Programme, while also embarking on a transition programme aimed at returning the country to democratic rule.

However, his tenure remains one of the most debated periods in Nigeria’s political history, particularly over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, an event that triggered a prolonged political crisis and eventually contributed to the end of his administration.

While marking the former military leader’s birthday, Idris focused on his continuing involvement in national affairs and his advocacy for unity, stability and peaceful coexistence.

The Minister said Babangida’s experiences in military and political leadership provided useful lessons for younger Nigerians on the demands and complexities of nation-building.

According to him, the former military president has remained engaged with issues of national importance despite leaving office more than three decades ago.

Idris also commended Babangida’s continued interventions on matters concerning national cohesion and the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.

“General Babangida remains an important voice in our national journey, and at 85, we celebrate his service, his statesmanship and his enduring commitment to a united Nigeria,” Idris said.

The Minister said Babangida’s lengthy public career had given him a distinctive perspective on Nigeria’s political evolution and the challenges facing the country.

He wished the former military president continued good health, peace and fulfilment, while praying that he would continue to enjoy the love of his family and the goodwill of Nigerians.