Etsu Nupe celebrates IBB at 85, hails his service, contributions to Nigeria
ALHAJI Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, has congratulated former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on the occasion of his 85th birthday.
Abubakar, who is also a retired Brigadier-General of the Nigerian Army, in a congratulatory message issued on Monday to mark Babangida’s 85th birthday, extended his warm felicitations and best wishes to the former military president, his family and associates.
The traditional ruler described Babangida as a distinguished soldier, statesman and patriot whose career in the Nigerian Army and subsequent service as Military President had made him a prominent figures in the country’s contemporary history.
He said that Babangida’s attainment of 85 years was a remarkable milestone deserving of celebration, thanksgiving and reflection on a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria.
According to him, Babangida’s military career and years of national leadership came at a critical period in the history of the country, when Nigeria faced complex political, economic and security challenges.
The Etsu Nupe acknowledged the difficult responsibilities associated with national leadership, noting that the decisions taken during such periods would naturally remain subjects of historical assessment and public discourse.
Abubakar said that irrespective of differing perspectives on the policies and decisions of successive administrations, the contributions of past leaders to national development should be assessed within the context of the circumstances in which they served.
He particularly acknowledged several institutions and initiatives established during Babangida’s administration which, according to him, have continued to contribute to national development.
Abubakar listed the institutions to include the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and National Directorate of Employment (NDE).
The traditional ruler also acknowledged the development of Nigeria’s security architecture during the period, as well as the creation of additional states and investments in major infrastructure projects.
He said such institutions and projects had become part of Nigeria’s national development history and demonstrated the importance of continuity in governance and institution-building.
Abubakar also described Babangida’s journey from the military to the highest level of national leadership as one that had left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
He urged younger Nigerians to study the nation’s history objectively and draw useful lessons from the experiences of leaders who had served the country at different periods.
The Etsu Nupe further called for continued national unity, peaceful coexistence and commitment to democratic and institutional development, stressing that the ultimate responsibility of every generation was to build on the achievements of those who came before it.
“On behalf of the traditional institution in Niger State, the people of the Nupe Kingdom, my family and associates, I warmly congratulate His Excellency, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on attaining the remarkable age of 85.
“Your Excellency, your life and service to Nigeria constitute an important chapter in our national history. As you celebrate this milestone, we acknowledge your contributions to the development of our dear country and your enduring place in the history of Nigeria,” Alhaji Abubakar said.
The Etsu Nupe prayed Almighty Allah to continue to grant Babangida good health, wisdom, strength and peace of mind, while granting him many more years of fulfilment.
The first class traditional ruler also prayed Allah to continue to protect the former military president, his family and loved ones and grant him the grace to witness many more years in good health and happiness.
Abubakar wished Babangida a memorable 85th birthday celebration, expressing hope that the former military president’s wealth of experience would continue to provide inspiration and valuable lessons to present and future generations of Nigerians.
(NAN)
