President Bola Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians have congratulated former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd.), on his 85th birthday, describing him as a significant figure in Nigeria’s political and military history.

Babangida, who ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, marked his 85th birthday on Monday, August 17, 2026.

In a congratulatory message issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Babangida as an outstanding leader whose military career culminated in his emergence as Nigeria’s military President following the 1985 coup.

Tinubu said Babangida’s eight-year administration left lasting imprints on Nigeria’s political, economic and geographical landscape.

“Like him or not, former President Babangida impacted Nigeria in ways no other leader has. His eight-year reign left enduring marks on our political, economic, and geographic landscape,” the President said.

According to Tinubu, Babangida’s administration expanded the economy, established infrastructure and created agencies and institutions that have continued to contribute to national development.

He also credited the former military leader with playing a role in the creation of states, saying his decisions were influenced by foresight, wisdom and a sense of fairness.

The President said Babangida’s contributions had secured him an enduring place in Nigeria’s history.

Tinubu also praised the former military President for continuing to provide counsel on national issues years after leaving office.

He wished Babangida continued good health, strength and longevity.

Babangida celebrates with family, friends

The former military President marked his birthday with special prayers attended by a small circle of family members and friends at his Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State.

The prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Minna Central Mosque, Malam Jibrin Isah, who prayed for Babangida’s continued good health and commended his contributions to Nigeria and society.

The intimate gathering reflected the former leader’s low-key approach to his birthday celebrations.

Niger governor hails IBB

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, also congratulated Babangida, describing him as a visionary, patriotic and exemplary leader.

Bago praised the former military President for his courage and decisiveness, particularly during his years in power.

The governor said policies introduced under Babangida’s administration contributed to national development and continued to produce positive effects decades later.

He also commended the former leader for remaining committed to the development of society after leaving active public service.

According to Bago, Babangida’s continued counsel and experience remain valuable to the country.

Bala Mohammed describes Babangida as consequential figure

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, described Babangida as one of the most consequential figures in Nigeria’s political and military history.

In a congratulatory message issued by his media aide, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor said Babangida’s decades of military and public service had left an indelible mark on the nation.

Bala Mohammed acknowledged the immense responsibilities Babangida shouldered during a particularly challenging period in Nigeria’s history.

He noted that the former military President governed during a period characterised by complex political, economic and social challenges.

The governor said that despite differing opinions about various aspects of Babangida’s administration, his contributions to national unity, stability and development remained significant and deserved historical reflection.

Information Minister joins tributes

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also congratulated Babangida on his 85th birthday.

Idris described him as an elder statesman whose life and public service occupy an important place in Nigeria’s contemporary history.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the minister said Babangida’s journey through military service, national leadership and statesmanship represented a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political and institutional development.

He noted that decades after leaving office, Babangida had continued to engage with issues of national importance, particularly those concerning Nigeria’s unity, stability and development.

The tributes from the President, governors and other public figures underscore Babangida’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s political history, more than three decades after he left office.

As the former military President marks 85, attention remains focused on his legacy and the policies and decisions that shaped Nigeria during his administration.