A former President of the Nigerian Senate, David Mark and a former federal lawmaker, Tunde Ogbeha have paid glowing tributes to former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida on his 81st birthday.
The duo in their goodwill messages to General Babangida described him as a leader of all seasons.
They appreciated his vision, wisdom and courage in leadership, pointing out that “his transformation agenda, through socio-political and economic programmes during his regime, remain reference points, decades after he left office”.
General Babangida, they said is undoubtedly a patriotic Nigerian, who believed and worked for the peace and unity of Nigeria, adding that he never betrayed ethnic or religious sentiments.
According to them, “Babangida was fair and firm. He never compromised competence or merit. He always craved excellence. “
They listed his transformation programmes to include, but are not limited to the Federal Road Safety Commission, (FRSC), National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Directorate Of Political And Social Mobilization (MAMSA), now National Orientation Agency, (NOA), as well as the actualization of the movement of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja.
They were pleased to note that Babangida has continued to make his reservoir of knowledge and wealth of experience in leadership and administration, available for the younger generation to learn from.
They prayed that God continues to grant Babangida good health, peace and wisdom in the years ahead.
Senator Mark was the military Governor and later Minister of Communications under Babangida’s administration, while Senator Ogbeha was the pioneer Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State, and later old Bendel State.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
