Ex military ruler / President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida returned to Nigeria on November 1, 2014, Saturday, after almost two-months-long medical treatment in Germany.
His chartered flight arrived Minna International Airport at about 2.50pm. General’s son, Mohammed, daughter, Halimat, a grandchild, some close friends and associates, mainly senior retired officers, were at the airport to welcome him.
A short prayer session, led by his childhood friend, Alhaji Mohammed Tako, held shortly on arrival to thank Allah (SWT) for His mercies. IBB’s supporters prayed for his quick recovery, renewed strength and long life in good health.
The former leader of Nigeria appeared before the newsmen wearing a navy blue Kaftan with gray stripes and a cap to match. He looked healthy and in high spirit.
Journalists were not allowed to photograph the former leader of Nigeria, but everyone was eager to listen to him immediately, at the airport.
Babangida simply said: “Alihamadulillahi. I am coming up well. I am grateful to all Nigerians”.
He expressed his gratitude to all the Nigerians who were concerned about his state of health during the period of treatment. IBB also said he wanted to have some rest, before talking about politics.
“I am feeling better, I want to use this opportunity to appreciate all my compatriot Nigerians for the goodwill and gestures they expressed during my absence.
“I have been deeply touched by their (Nigerians) love and their affection and their prayers. I want to use this medium to thank each and every one of them.”
IBB further commented on his feelings the apprehension generated about his health while in Germany:
“The apprehension is no longer there, I thank Nigerians I am coming up well. Alihamdulillahi.”
Babangida was further asked about his ability to cope with the pressure which would be increasing ahead of 2015.
The veteran politician said he had been monitoring political events in Nigeria while in Germany, but he would be ready for a detailed talk after having enough rest.
“I missed all of you that welcome me, especially my local champions (journalists). I look forward to all of you to sit and chat with you and talk about politics as we always do. For now I want to rest.”
The renowned Nigerians spotted at the airport included the Minister of Defence General Aliyu Gusau, Air Vice Marshall Hamza Abdullahi, former FCT Minister General Halilu Akilu, former Director of Military Intelligence Col. Habibu Shuaibu, former Minister of Sports Alhaji Sani Ndanusa and former Niger State military administrator, Alhaji Umar Ndanusa.
The national chairman of National Democratic Party (NDP), Alhaji Hassan Jalo, the former Minister of Finance Alhaji Abubakar Muye and a Justice of Supreme Court, Justice Musa Datijo were also among those who received Babangida.
Babangida was driven home in a black BMW and arrived his Uphill residence at about 3.15pm.
It would be recalled that Babangida was flown to Germany on September 6, 2014, accompanied by his son Aminu. Initially a routine medical check-up has been planned for the ex Nigerian leader. However, IBB had to undergo a bone related-surgery, which required long recovery period and extended his duration of stay significantly.
President Goodluck Jonathan had allegedly paid Babangida a visit at the hospital, while on his way to New York, for the annual UN Assembly on September 21, 2014.
culled from lifestyle
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