Former Vice President and 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has urged former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), to continue praying for Nigeria as the country heads towards the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the appeal in a birthday tribute posted on his official X handle on Monday to mark IBB’s 85th birthday.
The ADC flagbearer described Babangida as one of Nigeria’s most senior citizens, a patriot and statesman whose legacy of nation-building remains indelible.
“To be candid, 85 candles will never be adequate in celebrating the birth anniversary of one of Nigeria’s most senior citizens, patriot and statesman of the calibre of former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retired),” Atiku wrote.
He thanked the former Head of State for his “sacrifice and love of country”, citing his role in keeping Nigeria united, his investment in infrastructure and socio-economic development, and his decision to move the nation’s capital from Lagos to Abuja.
Atiku also lauded Babangida’s mentoring of younger leaders, describing him as someone who “planted the nation-building trees that are currently providing shades to generations of Nigerian leaders”.
He further praised the former military President’s mantra on anger management, which he quoted: “Do not fight your seniors, because elders are not to be insulted; do not trade insults with juniors, because they don’t have the experience that you have; and don’t fight your mates, because there will always be places to meet.”
Calling it “worthy of repeat” and “a monumental value addition to the body of human knowledge”, Atiku said Babangida’s public relations-driven engagements and persuasive style remained a case study in intentional communication that Nigeria needed more of today.
“Therefore, as the world celebrates your unique birth anniversary today, please continue to pray for the unity and prosperity of our dear country, especially in view of the precarious situation in our nation today, barely a few months from the general elections holding next year,” Atiku urged.
The former vice president prayed to Allah for continued blessings, longevity and good health for Babangida.
“At 85, I would want to thank you for your immense and impactful contributions to the history and heritage of our dear country. I also pray to Allah that your existence continues to enjoy abundant blessings, longevity and a wealth of good health. More grace, steady pace and continuous service to humanity, Your Excellency,” he added.
“Happy birthday, Sir, and multiple salutations to the People’s Witty General and a worthy statesman.”