President Muhammadu Buhari has sent birthday greetings to former President Ibrahim Babangida, wishing him a “long and healthy life”, as he marks his 80th birthday.
The president’s congratulatory message was issued by one of his spokesmen, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Monday.
Buhari noted that as former military commanders during the war, both retiring as Generals, they had mutual interests, great hopes and expectations in a strong and united Nigeria.
He expressed hope that privileged Nigerians like Babangida and others like himself would recommit to ongoing efforts to help the nation to reach more glory, progress, and prosperity.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also described Babangida as a pillar of unity and a firm believer in one Nigeria.
In a goodwill message on the occasion of Babangida’s 80th birthday anniversary on Tuesday, 17th of August, Atiku stated that IBB established a record of an inclusive government that reflected Nigeria’s ethnic and religious diversity.
“You can’t deny IBB the credit for his sincere efforts to build a viable federation founded on equitable representation”, Atiku said in the statement signed by Paul Ibe, his Media Adviser.
The former Vice President noted that even Babangida’s most stubborn critics can’t deny the fact that the former military leader had built a solid national infrastructure for the country which is still standing and visible around the country.
Atiku also paid tribute to IBB for assembling one of the best and most formidable cabinets in our recent history because of his commitment to excellence.
The former Vice President commended Babangida’s remarkable childhood history. He said the General lost both his parents at an early age and had to struggle to pull himself up in life.
He described IBB as a man of vast knowledge, wisdom, wealth of experience and broad outlook on life.
He prayed to Allah to grant him more years in good health and vitality.
Also, former Governor of Abia State and Chief Whip of the Senate, Dr. Orji Kalu, described Babaginda as a bridge builder with passion for a united and indivisible Nigeria.
Acknowledging the contributions of the former President to nation building, Kalu stressed that the former Military ruler is an accomplished and dedicated elder statesman.
The former Governor noted that IBB had over the years sustained relationships across the country by building and strengthening ties among family, friends and associates , adding that the former President is a strong advocate of peaceful co-existence among all ethnic groups in Nigeria.
In a goodwill message, Kalu prayed for longer life for the celebrant.
He said, ” on behalf of the people of Abia North Senatorial District, I felicitate with former President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Babaginda on the occasion of his 80th birthday anniversary.
“The former President has contributed immensely to the social, economic and political development of Nigeria.
“The former military ruler is a selfless, patriotic and highly detrabilised statesman.
“The country will continue to benefit from his wealth of experience in leadership.
“Having served the country in the highest position, the celebrant deserves to be celebrated for his giant achievements”.
Kalu, who described the former President as a rare gem, urged the celebrant to sustain his patriotic efforts in advocating peace and unity across the country.
The former Governor wished the former President a glorious celebration and longer life as he serves humanity.
