Niger state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has congratulated former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida retired, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an elder statesman whose policies and initiatives continue to shape the development of Nigeria.
In a congratulatory message signed by the Council Secretary, Comrade Usman Chiji, the NUJ thanked Allah for preserving the life of the former leader to witness his 85th birthday, describing the milestone as an opportunity to reflect on his contributions to the nation.
The Council however commended General Babangida for introducing policies, institutions and infrastructure projects that, according to it, continue to have direct impact on the lives of Nigerians.
It specifically highlighted the creation of additional states and local government areas, as well as the establishment of institutions such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and the Directorate of Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI).
The NUJ also recalled the deregulation of the electronic media and Babangida’s economic and financial reforms, which paved the way for the emergence of private commercial banks and other enterprises aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy, noting that many of the policies and initiatives introduced during his administration have remained significant milestones in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic development.
The NUJ further acknowledged his contributions to regional and global peace, particularly through Nigeria’s role in the establishment of the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), peacekeeping missions in troubled countries and the strengthening of bilateral relations with other nations, and prayed Allah to grant the former military leader good health, wisdom, strength, and many more years of fulfilment and service to Nigeria.
PR ALIYU LAWAL.
