General Ibrahim Babangida, popularly known as IBB, ruled Nigeria as a military president from 1985 to 1993. His administration was marked by economic reforms, the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), and controversial political decisions, including the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Abuja, Nigeria – Former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd.), on Thursday, raised over N16 billion through donations at the public presentation of his autobiography and the launch of his presidential library.
The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, saw Nigeria’s business moguls, political figures, and close associates of Babangida making substantial financial commitments to support the initiative. The book, titled “A Journey in Service,” chronicles Babangida’s life, military career, and leadership experiences as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1985 to 1993.
Major Donors and Contributions
Nigeria’s richest man and founder of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, led the donation with a pledge of N8 billion, broken into N2 billion annually for four years. He also promised to continue his contribution beyond that period if necessary.
Other notable donors included:
- Abdulsamad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group – N5 billion
- Theophilus Danjuma, Founder of TY Danjuma Foundation – N3 billion
- Arthur Eze, Businessman – N500 million
- Senator Sani Musa – N250 million
- Senate President, Godswill Akpabio – N50 million
- Deputy Senate President – N20 million
- Senator Aliyu Wadada – N10 million
Businesswoman Folorunsho Alakija and several others also made donations but did not disclose the amounts publicly.
High-Profile Attendance
The event attracted Nigeria’s political and business elites, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu leading a delegation of former Nigerian presidents and military heads of state, including:
- Goodluck Jonathan
- Yakubu Gowon
- Abdulsalami Abubakar
Also in attendance were former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, and Yemi Osinbajo. Other notable guests included:
- Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate and former governor of Anambra State
- Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor and NNPP presidential candidate
- Governors, traditional rulers, industrialists, and technocrats
The event’s keynote speaker was former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, alongside former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Koroma.
About Babangida’s Legacy
General Ibrahim Babangida, popularly known as IBB, ruled Nigeria as a military president from 1985 to 1993. His administration was marked by economic reforms, the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), and controversial political decisions, including the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Despite criticisms, Babangida remains influential in Nigerian politics, maintaining close ties with key figures in business and governance. His newly launched presidential library aims to document his contributions to Nigeria’s political and military history.
The book, “A Journey in Service,” is expected to offer insights into Babangida’s life, leadership philosophy, and role in shaping modern Nigeria.
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