Governor Bala Mohammed Felicitates Babangida at 85, Hails Former Military President as Enduring Figure in Nigeria’s History

By Umar Usman Duguri

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON, has congratulated former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an enduring and consequential figure in Nigeria’s political and military history.

In a congratulatory message issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, Governor Bala extended the felicitations on behalf of his family, the Bauchi State Government and the people of the state.

The Governor acknowledged the significant responsibilities undertaken by General Babangida during his years in public service, particularly his leadership at a challenging period in Nigeria’s political, economic and social development.

According to him, while different perspectives continue to shape public understanding of various chapters of the country’s history, Babangida’s contribution to the Nigerian state and efforts by his generation towards national unity, stability and development remain important aspects of Nigeria’s history.

“At 85, Your Excellency, you stand as an enduring figure in Nigeria’s national story. Your journey through military and public service reflects a life devoted to the service of our dear nation at some of its most challenging moments,” Governor Bala said.

The Bauchi governor also commended Babangida’s continued role as an elder statesman, particularly his contributions to national discourse and his willingness to provide counsel and guidance to successive generations of Nigerian leaders.

Governor Bala further highlighted what he described as the enduring bond of respect and affection between General Babangida and the people of Bauchi State, noting that his fatherly disposition and commitment to the Nigerian family remain deeply appreciated.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and the good people of Bauchi State, I warmly felicitate with Your Excellency on this significant milestone. Bauchi State joins your family, friends and well-wishers across Nigeria in celebrating 85 years of life, service and experience,” he said.

The Governor prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to grant General Babangida sound health, renewed strength, peace of mind and many more years of fulfilment with his family, friends and the Nigerian people.

He also expressed hope that the former Military President’s wealth of experience and wisdom would continue to contribute to the pursuit of peace, unity and national progress.

The statement was signed by Mukhtar Gidado, MNIPR, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, on August 17, 2026.