Buhari hails IBB at 79, says his service ‘will always be remembered’

President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigeria will always remember the services of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, a former military ruler.

Babangida was military head of state from 1985 to 1993 when he “stepped aside” and Ernest Shonekan took over as interim president of the country until the late Sani Abacha, former military ruler, seized power in a bloodless coup.

In a statement to commemorate the 79th birthday of the former military leader, Buhari prayed to God to grant him good health and long life.

“President Muhammadu Buhari sends warm felicitations to former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida on his 79th birthday, August 17, 2020, joining family, friends and associates to celebrate with the elder statesman,” he said in a statement Femi Adesina, his spokesman, issued on his behalf.

“As the former military leader turns a new age, the President believes his services to the country will always be remembered.

“President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will continually strengthen Gen. Babangida, grant him good health and longer life.”

Babangida had toppled the military regime of Buhari in 1985.