The Government and people of Niger State have joined millions of Nigerians and well-wishers across the globe in celebrating an illustrious son of the State and former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, on his 84th birthday anniversary.
In a congratulatory message, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, described the former Military President as a national icon whose legacy of visionary leadership, institutional reforms and infrastructural development continues to shape the country’s political and socio-economic landscape.
He hailed General Babangida as “a trailblazer and architect of modern governance in Nigeria,” noting that his administration introduced far-reaching reforms, including the establishment of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the People’s Bank of Nigeria, the National Economic Reconstruction Fund (NERFUND), the Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice and Economic Recovery (MAMSER), and the Technical Committee on Privatization and Commercialization (TCPC), which laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s later economic liberalization.
Alhaji Usman also highlighted Babangida’s impact on Niger State in areas such as leadership grooming, education, infrastructure and community development. He added that the former President has continued to inspire generations of leaders with his wisdom, foresight and commitment to national unity.
“Today, as we celebrate this milestone of 84 impactful years, we recognize his sacrifices, his courage in times of challenge, and his enduring legacy of service to the nation,” the SSG stated.
He prayed for continued good health, long life and peace of mind for the elder statesman, while urging younger Nigerians to emulate the values of patriotism, discipline and vision that General Babangida represents.
The Government and people of Niger State, he said, remain proud of his contributions and reaffirm their deep respect and admiration for one of Nigeria’s greatest leaders.
