Delta state Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has congratulated former military president Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, as he clocks 78 years on August 17.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by his chief press secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika.
According to the statement, the governor said Babangida “is an elder statesman whose commitment to the unity and indivisibility of the country remains resolute.”
He extolled the former leader for “his leadership qualities and acknowledged his role in the creation of the state and for remaining a rallying point since he left office in 1993.”
“You created Delta state in 1991 and as we celebrate the 28th anniversary of the creation of our dear state, we remember your astute and sagacious contributions towards the realisation of our dream.
“As a national icon and statesman, you occupy a special place in the hearts of the government and people of Delta because without your benevolent act, perhaps Deltans would have still been agitating for their own state.
“So, on behalf of my family, the government and people of the state, I heartily congratulate you, our great leader and elder statesman, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on your 78th birth anniversary.
“As you continue to age gracefully, we thank you for your kind contributions to nation-building. It is my prayer that the good Lord will continue to uphold and guide you in all your future endeavours,” the statement read in part.
