Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has celebrated former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.) on his 85th birthday, describing the retired general as a patriot whose influence on Nigeria’s political and socio-economic history remains significant.
In a personally signed message issued on Monday, Atiku praised Babangida for what he described as his enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, national development and nation-building.
He said the former military ruler had left behind a legacy that continued to influence successive generations of Nigerian leaders.
Atiku particularly highlighted Babangida’s role in major infrastructural and socio-economic initiatives, including the relocation of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja.
According to the former vice president, the decision to establish Abuja as the nation’s capital represented one of the most consequential projects associated with Babangida’s administration.
He also praised the former military president’s approach to leadership, communication and conflict management, arguing that his ability to engage different sections of society offered lessons for contemporary political leaders.
“85 candles will never be adequate in celebrating the birth anniversary of one of Nigeria’s most senior citizens, patriot and statesman,” Atiku said.
He thanked Babangida for his “sacrifice and love of country,” while crediting him with contributing to efforts aimed at preserving Nigeria’s unity.
Atiku also described Babangida’s mentoring abilities and administrative experience as important contributions to the development of future generations of leaders.
Beyond infrastructure and politics, Atiku drew attention to a philosophy attributed to Babangida on handling disagreements with people across different generations.
He recalled Babangida’s advice against unnecessary confrontations with seniors, juniors or contemporaries, describing the principle as a lasting lesson in emotional intelligence and interpersonal relations.
Atiku said the philosophy remained relevant in contemporary Nigeria, particularly at a time when political disagreements frequently spill into personal attacks and hostility.
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He further described Babangida as a leader who understood the importance of communication and persuasion, despite ruling Nigeria as a military leader.
According to Atiku, the former military president’s interactions with Nigerians demonstrated a deliberate approach to public communication that could still serve as a case study for modern leaders.
He said Nigeria needed more leaders capable of combining political authority with effective engagement and persuasion.
Atiku links Babangida’s birthday to Nigeria’s future
The former vice president used the occasion to call for continued prayers for Nigeria, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
Atiku urged Babangida to continue praying for peace, unity and prosperity in the country, noting that Nigeria was facing difficult circumstances.
He also prayed for good health, longevity and continued blessings for the former military president.
“At 85, I would want to thank you for your immense and impactful contributions to the history and heritage of our dear country,” Atiku said.
He concluded his message by describing Babangida as a “worthy statesman” and offering birthday greetings to the former military leader.
Babangida, who governed Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, remains one of the country’s most influential and controversial military-era leaders, with his administration associated with major political, economic and infrastructural decisions that continue to shape debates about Nigeria’s development.