President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has credited former Military Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), for inspiring his own political journey, asserting that without Babangida’s influence he would not be in public service. At the official launch of IBB’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, in Abuja on Thursday, Babangida revealed that, 32 years on, he deeply regrets the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election—a period he described as the most difficult of his life.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu acknowledged Babangida’s critical role in nurturing young political leaders. “Without your influence, people like me would not be in politics. Your progressive vision for involving young, talented individuals has inspired many, including those here today. This library project reflects the happiness of visionary leadership. Thank you for being who you are,” Tinubu said.
The former military leader’s memoir also details his transformative economic reforms, including the licensing of new-generation banks that revolutionized Nigeria’s financial landscape. Tinubu recalled a striking moment from his early political career when Babangida delayed the inauguration of federal lawmakers 33 years ago. “Although we were elected, you postponed our inauguration, summoning us to the International Conference Centre. I was not expecting to speak, but I questioned your decision to delay our inauguration. Despite concerns that I would be sent to jail, you told me I took bold steps, and I will never forget the impact you’ve had on my life,” Tinubu recounted.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, reviewing the memoir, highlighted significant events from Babangida’s tenure, including the assassination of journalist Dele Giwa, the Gideon Orkar coup attempt, and the structural adjustment policy that led to economic hardship and riots in 1989. Osinbajo noted, “He presents the facts clearly, offers his reasons for the actions he took, and acknowledges where he believes he was wrong. Upon closer examination of the election results, it became clear that M.K.O. Abiola did indeed win the June 12 elections with 8,128,720 votes against Tofa’s 5,848,247—meeting both the majority and geographical spread requirements.”
Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo underscored the importance of democracy and warned against the resurgence of military coups in Africa. “It is disappointing to see military coups returning to fashion in our region. We have much work ahead to build and consolidate democratic structures and earn the trust of our populations,” Akufo-Addo stated.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan stressed the significance of documenting Nigeria’s political history and called for the establishment of presidential libraries to preserve this heritage. “Each president creates history, but not all contribute to its documentation. This presidential library will serve as the custodian of that history for future generations,” Jonathan said.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, credited IBB for revolutionizing Nigeria’s private sector, particularly through the abolition of import licenses in 1986. Dangote pledged to support the Babangida Presidential Library with a donation of ₦2 billion annually for the next four years, totaling ₦8 billion. “You abolished import licenses in 1986, which led to our growth. I pledge ₦2 billion annually for the next four years, totaling ₦8 billion. If the project extends beyond four years, I will continue to contribute,” he declared.
Former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar recalled a prophecy from 1952 predicting Babangida’s rise to power and commended his long-standing service. “As far back as 1952, a seer foretold that Ibrahim would become the head of state. At that time, we never believed him. By God’s mercy, we both eventually served as heads of state,” Abubakar remarked.
Former Head of State Yakubu Gowon expressed his gratitude for Babangida’s efforts to restore his rank and honor after his own ousting. “You restored my rank and honour, for which I am grateful. I congratulate you on your contributions to Nigeria,” Gowon said.
Chairman of the event, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, advised Babangida to ignore critics, noting, “Do not be overly concerned about critics. Criticism can indicate success. Ignore detractors and maintain a friendly demeanour.”
The launch of A Journey in Service also served as a fundraiser for the Babangida Presidential Library, drawing past and present leaders to reflect on IBB’s profound impact on Nigeria’s political history. The event marked a moment of reflection on Babangida’s legacy, including his expressed regret over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election—an act he described as the most challenging period of his life—and set the stage for discussions on the evolution of Nigeria’s democracy.
