Former military head of state Ibrahim Babangida has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday.
Babangida, in a personal statement on Saturday, praised Tinubu as a “remarkable, bold, and resilient” leader who has shown courage during the country’s challenging times.
He also praised Tinubu’s political journey, recalling their early interactions during the late 1980s when the military regime was working towards democratic governance.
According to IBB, Tinubu has remained consistent with his ideals, principles, and democratic values over the decades.
He wrote, “You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far has been very remarkable, bold, resilient, and encouraging. Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians.
“Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always. Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face. I can easily recollect when our paths crossed in the late eighties when the government I ran was trying to birth democracy.
“You have remained consistent to your ideals, principles, and democratic values to date, which is why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment. A result-driven and utility leader like you fits the present challenges, especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration so far.
“You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto, and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to take uncommon decisions.
“Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations. On behalf of Aisha, Muha, Aminu, and Halima, we accept our collective felicitations on this special day. This is happening in the holy month of Ramadan. It is an indication of Allah’s abiding mercy and love for you. May Allah accept our supplications and grant you good health and more wisdom to help you chart the way forward for our dear country. Congratulations, Mr. President. Many happy returns.”
Tinubu had recently commended IBB for publicly acknowledging that the late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election that was nullified by him as military president.
IBB acknowledged Abiola’s victory for the first time during the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, and a fundraising event for the IBB Presidential Library Project in Abuja.
Tinubu, who attended the event, lauded Babangida’s decision to set the historical record straight after three decades.
He described the former military president’s admission as an important step in acknowledging Nigeria’s democratic history.
“I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you,” Tinubu stated.
Babangida, in his remarks at the event, admitted that annulling the June 12 election was the most difficult decision of his career.
He expressed regret over the development but maintained that all actions taken at the time were in the ultimate interest of the nation.
‘Your Leadership Has Been Very Remarkable’ — IBB Tells Tinubu At 73 is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
Source: The Whistler