IN an apparent endorsement of how President Goodluck Jonathan has piloted the affairs of the nation thus far, former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has assured that the country is safe under his leadership.
The former Nigerian leader spoke when he received Jonathan on Tuesday, at his Minna, Niger State Hilltop residence, shortly before the president attended the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential rally in the state.
Babangida expressed appreciation to the president for finding time to visit him at home, in spite of his busy schedule, having previously paid him a visit while he was hospitalised in Germany.
The former military leader said he shared the same passion for service with Jonathan, who, he noted, had demonstrated the zeal to transform the country.
He said: “I felt touched when you visited me in Germany after nine hours of surgery and you came again?
“You have made a very good decision to visit Minna during your presidential campaign, because Minna is known for producing presidents, beginning from your namesake, President Azikiwe, who was born in Zungeru.
“When we were doing nocturnal activities for the PDP, this house held meetings.
“My family and I are proud of this. I commend the party for being very strong,
“I see in PDP a party, an organisation devoid of religion. You have shown leadership. Even when others are breaking up, you have remained strong.
“Jonathan and I share a common passion, which is that Nigeria remains strong, united and indivisible. I wish you well. Nigeria under Jonathan is in safe hands.”
President Jonathan had earlier said he was pleased each time he came to see Babangida, saying “you have taken me as a son since my days as deputy governor. You have been a pillar of support to me.
“I have come to present myself and Sambo; you are a leader of our party, you are a stabilising factor of our country, party and have been encouraging the young ones to grow.
“We sincerely thank you for this reception. We pray for long life for you continue to mentor us.”
Also speaking on the occasion, the national chairman of the PDP, Dr Adamu Muazu, explained that Jonathan and his entourage came to visit Babangida because of the fatherly role the former leader had been playing.
He said: “His leadership has motivated and encouraged a lot of us to what we do. We have not had opportunity to thank you as a visionary government.
“The work you did remain unparalleled in Nigeria’s history.
“Jonathan, from a different religion and tribe has found you to be strongly behind him today.
“We are here to pay homage; to give us encouragement, prayers for us to attain where we want to be. Being one of the founding fathers of our party, you have encouraged us in the party, you have continued to stabilise our country.
“We pray for sound health and God to protect you so that you will continue to avail us your intelligence.” (Culled from Tribune).