MON, AUG 17 2020-theG&BJournal– Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has felicitated with ex-Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on the occasion of his 79th birthday, describing him as a statesman who has made considerable contribution to Nigeria’s growth.
General Babangida who served as the nation’s military President from 1985 to 1993 turns 79 today.
In a goodwill message to Babangida which he personally signed, Jonathan highlighted the former military President’s strong sense of patriotism and commitment to Nigeria’s unity and development.
In the message Jonathan further said: “I celebrate with you, your family, and all associates as you mark your 79th birthday.
“You are a statesman who has made invaluable contributions to the growth and development of our country, Nigeria.
“I salute your steadfast love for our nation and your continued zeal towards a united and prosperous Nigeria.
“As you celebrate, may God sustain you with sound health, peace and joy. On behalf of my family, I wish you a happy birthday.”
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has thanked the former President for his contributions to nation-building, recalling that it was during his administration that a number of states, including Delta, were created.
“At 79, your contributions to nation-building reverberates across the nooks and crannies of our great nation and as Deltans in particular, we can’t thank you enough for creating our state in 1991.
“As we mark the 29th anniversary of the creation of Delta, we recall with gratitude your exemplary and legendary contributions in making it a reality.
“The benefits of state creation no doubt, have manifested tremendously in the lives of over five million Deltans who live and do business in our state which has impacted positively in the economic, infrastructural and human capital development of our people.
“I must also commend you for your fearless contributions to national issues and your strategic support to the genuine efforts towards making our nation great.
“As a military officer, you had an illustrious career which culminated in your becoming Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“As a national icon and elder statesman, we hold you in high esteem for granting the most important wish of Deltans at the time you did,” the governor stated.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I heartily congratulate you, our great leader and elder statesman, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, on your 79th birth anniversary.
“As a distinguished leader and statesman, you served the nation diligently by ensuring the unity of our country through the promotion of harmony and tolerance in spite of our obvious diversity.
“It is my prayer that the good Lord will continue to uphold and guide you in all your future endeavours,” he added.
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