Former President Goodluck Jonathan says the Hilltop residence of former Military President, Retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida has remained a Mecca of sort to Nigerians because of his leadership qualities.
Jonathan, in Minna where many well-wishers visited Babangida on the occasion of his 84th birthday, described the former military president as a committed leader who always stood for the unity of the country.
“Nigeria has produced leaders since independence, but Gen. Babangida stands out clearly as one of those who want the best for the country.
“That is why today, his house is like a Mecca of sort. People come to him regularly, and that tells you a lot about the character of IBB,” he said.
He said Babangida never sees himself as a sectional leader, but as one who believes in the unity of Nigeria and noted that the former military president would continue to be celebrated because of his contributions to national unity.
“Our prayer for him is for God to grant him long life so that he can continue to mentor the younger ones to follow his exemplary footsteps,” he stated.
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Earlier, the Secretary to the Niger Government SSG, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, extolled the contributions of Gen. Babangida and described him as a trailblazer and architect of modern governance in Nigeria.
According to Usman, IBB is a national icon whose legacy of visionary leadership and administration introduced far-reaching reforms that redefined the course of national development.
“His administration established institutions such as the Federal Road Safety Crops, People’s Bank of Nigeria and the National Economic Reconstruction Fund, among others.
Usman also highlighted IBB profound impact on Niger, particularly in leadership grooming, education, infrastructure and community development.
In his assessment, the SSG said IBB had not only served Nigeria with distinction but had continued to inspire generation of leaders with his wisdom, foresight and commitment to national unity.
The SSG prayed for continued good health, long life and peace of mind for the elder statement and urged younger Nigerians to emulate his values.
He noted that the government and people of Niger remained eternally proud of IBB contributions, reaffirming their deep respect and admiration for one of Nigeria’s greatest leaders.
