President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged African leaders to take up more responsibility for the development of the continent, identifying recent global shifts as a wake-up call for Africa to become more self-reliant and competitive.
Speaking on Thursday at the presentation of former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s autobiography, ‘A Journey in Service’, and the launch of his presidential library in Abuja, President Tinubu noted that unfolding events in the United States and Europe indicates the need for Africa to rise to the challenge of nation-building.
The Nigerian Tinubu Leader, who joined other current and past leaders of the country to honour the former Military President, reminisced on past events that have shaped the nation.
Speaking on the recent developments in America and Europe, the President said “I’m glad about what is happening in America and Europe, the contradiction that we are seeing now all over. What is it telling us? It’s telling us to wake up, to make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria.”
The president acknowledged the sacrifices required to advance Nigeria and expressed appreciation for the patience and perseverance of the Nigerian people.
President Tinubu lauded Rtd General Babangida (IBB) for inspiring his political journey, stating that without his leadership and reforms, individuals like him would not participate in politics.
He described the former leader as a visionary who championed the inclusion of young, brilliant minds in governance.
“Without you, people like me wouldn’t be in politics. Your progressive revolution encouraged young, brilliant people to participate in politics. We were with you in Dodan Barracks, and you inspired some of us,” he said.
The president recounted Rtd General Babangida’s leadership and the impact of his policies, particularly in economic and political development.
Read Also: Babangida Apologises for Annulment of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election
He applauded Babangida’s role in fostering a new generation of bankers and politicians, noting that the launch of his presidential library was a testament to his legacy.
“When you look at the programme, some of the bankers and many of us here today, we saw the happiness of a missionary in Babangida. Thank you for what you are,” Tinubu said.
The President reaffirmed Babangida’s impact on his personal and political life, calling him a leader deserving of recognition.
“That inspiration has been so impactful in my life. You deserve this day, and we celebrate you for what you are and what you have contributed to the history of this great country,” he said.
Reflecting on Babangida’s economic policies, Tinubu applauded his role in transforming Nigeria’s banking sector by granting licenses to new-generation banks. According to him, this decision changed the country’s financial landscape forever.
“Thereafter, you announced licenses for new-generation banks, and Nigeria has never been the same since then. You’ve made your marks,” he added.
On the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the former military president’s position emphasizing the importance of learning from history.
President Tinubu also vowed to make tough but necessary decisions in Nigeria’s best interest, no matter the challenges.
“All I can promise as the President is to strive to do the best, put the best forward, take decisions- no matter how difficult they are- in the interest of the country. You have done so, you have laid the example. Thank you very much,” President Tinubu concluded.
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