IBB: The Golden Touch at 84 – By Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris
As August 17th rolls around, Nigerians, particularly technocrats and government officials, mark the birthday of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, fondly referred to as IBB, with a day of reflection on good governance and democratic ideals. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of a leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s landscape.
During his tenure, Nigeria witnessed a seismic shift in governance, with the creation of impactful agencies and legacy projects that have stood the test of time. The likes of the Shiroro Hydro Dam, the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, the Benin-Asaba Expressway, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano dual carriageway, the movement of the nation’s capital to Abuja from Lagos, the liberalization of the broadcast industry and licensing of the first private broadcast stations, as well as the Abuja International Conference Centre, The Nigeria Liquidfied Natural Gas NLNG are iconic landmarks that continue to shape the nation’s infrastructure. The Abuja International Conference Centre, in particular, has served as Nigeria’s foremost venue for high-level international summits, diplomatic gatherings, and national events—cementing Abuja’s status as a true capital city on the global stage. These projects are a reminder that IBB’s vision for Nigeria was nothing short of remarkable – a masterstroke that has been etched in the annals of history.
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However, his administration was not without controversy, particularly the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. Yet, in a remarkable display of statesmanship, IBB has demonstrated his commitment to healing the wounds of the past. His willingness to confront the ghosts of his administration’s decisions head-on is a testament to his patriotic zeal.
As the saying goes, “history will be your judge, not your jury.” IBB’s administration was guided by the philosophy that “history will judge you for not taking a decision, but history will forgive you for taking a decision, even if it is the wrong one.” This bold approach to governance has earned him a reputation as a leader who was not afraid to take the bull by the horns.
Today, at 84, IBB’s Midas touch continues to inspire a new generation of leaders. His charisma and leadership acumen remain a beacon of hope for those seeking guidance on sustainable democracy and good governance. As politicians jostle for the top spot in Nigeria’s leadership hierarchy, the road to Up Hill in Minna, Niger State, remains a well-trodden path for those seeking statesmanship advice.
Indeed, it’s a truism that “the road to Aso Rock Villa will always pass through Minna Up Hill,” underscoring the enduring influence of IBB’s legacy on Nigeria’s leadership landscape. As we celebrate this milestone birthday, we honour a leader who has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
(Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris, Journalist/Public Affairs Analyst and Honourary Media Aide to General IBB, Lives in Abuja).
