Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Kaduna State, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, said the institution is proud to celebrate a former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (retd), on his 84th birthday.

The vice-chancellor made the remarks in a statement by the Director, Public Affairs Directorate of the university, Auwalu Umar, on Wednesday in Zaria.

The director said the elder statesman clocked 84 years on Sunday.

Mr Umar quoted the vice-chancellor as saying that the university was celebrating him not only for the grace of years he had attained but also for the enduring values he embodied.

Mr Ahmed said in a letter of felicitation that the former military president was a holder of ABU’s Honorary Doctorate Degree (LL. D) conferred on him by the university on November 24, 2012.

He also said Mr Babangida’s life had been defined by strength of character and unwavering belief in the unity of Nigeria, and a commitment to service that continued to inspire generations.

He stated, “At 84, you stand as a living testimony that age should not be a deterrent to one’s continued contributions to the progress and development of our nation. Your wisdom, experience, and vision remain vital resources in the ongoing search for peace, stability, and national renewal.’’

Mr Ahmed also prayed to God to continue to bless the elder statesman with good, renewed strength, and long life to continue to lend his voice, counsel, and his guidance to Nigeria’s development journey.

 (NAN)