The Northern Senators Forum has celebrated former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, on his 85th birthday, describing his contributions to Nigeria’s political and administrative development as enduring landmarks in the country’s history.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, the forum said Babangida’s leadership during a turbulent period helped preserve national unity and left institutional legacies that continue to shape Nigeria.
The senators particularly highlighted the creation of 11 states between 1987 and 1989, including Katsina, Jigawa, Taraba, Kebbi, Yobe and Kogi.
According to the forum, the creation of the states responded to longstanding demands for greater inclusion and representation, particularly in the North, while bringing government closer to the people and opening opportunities for rural development.
The lawmakers also described Babangida’s decision to relocate Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja as one of his most consequential legacies.
They noted that the completion and inauguration of Abuja as the nation’s capital in 1991 went beyond relocating government, describing it as a deliberate step towards national integration and a symbol of Nigeria’s unity in diversity.
“Your legacy of state creation remains one of the most enduring gifts to Nigerian federalism,” the senators said.
The forum congratulated Babangida on attaining 85, praying for continued strength, wisdom and good health.
It also expressed hope that his counsel and experience would continue to contribute to national development.
The senators said Babangida’s vision of a stable, united and prosperous Nigeria remained relevant to the country’s present and future generations.