President Muhmmadu Buhari has sent birthday greetings to former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, as he clocks 79 years on Monday.

A statement in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, said: “President Muhammadu Buhari sends warm felicitations to former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 79th birthday, August 17, 2020, joining family, friends and associates to celebrate with the elder statesman.

“As the former military leader turns a new age, the President believes his services to the country will always be remembered.

“President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will continually strengthen General Babangida, grant him good health and longer life.”

Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa also rejoiced with Babangida on his birthday.

In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, Lawan said the former Nigerian leader would be proud of his contributions to the defence of the territorial integrity, unity, political and socio-economic development of Nigeria.

Former Senate President David Mark, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Paul Mumeh, described Babangida as an inspirational leader.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Olisa Ifejiaka, the governor hailed Babangida for uniting the country.

President Buhari also congratulated a former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye, on his 80th birthday.

A statement by Adesina said President Buhari also lauded Martin-Kuye’s philanthropic gestures and prayed that God would grant him good health and longer life.

The President also mourned the death of second civilian governor of old Gongola State, Ambassador Wilberforce Juta.

A statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, described the late Ambassador Juta as a founding father of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who ably served the country.