By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
FORMER Nigerian Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has issued a passionate plea to leaders from the North, urging them to set aside personal rivalries and unite to rescue the region from mounting threats to its cohesion and development.
In a sombre and reflective address delivered on Tuesday, the elder statesman spoke of the gradual passing of the North’s most respected figures—renowned Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, politicians, and patriotic elders—warning that their sacrifices and legacy must not be allowed to vanish.
“You can see how our respected Northern elders continue to leave this world. Great scholars, experienced leaders, and patriotic figures are gradually departing. As for me, age and strength are no longer on my side, and I constantly reflect on the reality of life and death. What matters most now is leaving this world in faith and peace,” Babangida said.
He reminded current leaders of the foresight shown by their predecessors, pointing to the historic relocation of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja as a decision taken to ensure national balance and to bring governance closer to the North.
“If we had left the Federal Capital in Lagos and failed to move it closer to our region through Abuja, perhaps Northern Nigeria would not have enjoyed the level of recognition, access, and national relevance it has today,” he observed.
Babangida acknowledged that his generation had done its utmost, and that the burden of rebuilding the North now rests squarely with today’s leaders.
“We have done our part to the best of our ability, and our time is gradually coming to an end. I appeal to Northern leaders to come together, put aside personal interests, and work for the revival of our region. The North remains our home, and we have no other region to call our own,” he added.
The former military leader also expressed disquiet over actions by certain influential Northern figures, whose political alignments, he suggested, may not serve the collective interests of the region or the unity of Nigeria.
He concluded by urging all Nigerians to pray for peace, stability, and national unity, calling on leaders across every region to prioritise the national interest above political division.
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