Former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, said Tuesday said that Nigeria is very safe in the hands of President Goodluck Jonathan.
Babangida spoke at his Minna Uphill residence when he played host to President Jonathan, who was in Niger State in continuation of his nationwide campaign, praised Jonathan for working for peace and unity of Nigeria.
He said, “I share same passion with Jonathan in making sure of a peaceful, stable and developed Nigeria.
“Whenever I discuss with him (Jonathan), I see a young man who has passion for Nigeria.
“Under Jonathan. Nigeria is in safe hand.
“All presidents that this country have produced have come to Minna for blessing and today that you (Jonathan) have come. I will offer you that blessing.”
Babangida also commended the party for going on the right path as the party is devoid of religious and ethnicity.
Earlier, President Jonathan described his host as a dependable pillar that has continued to ensure the stability of the country.
“As a deputy governor, you took me as a son and since I came on board as vice president till date, you have been a pillar and a charismatic leader.
“You have been a stabilising factor in this country in many ways.
“You are not like some other past leaders.
“We pray for long life for you so that you can continue to mentor the country and you give rightful direction to us.”
The President later went into a closed door meeting with his host and some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party on his entourage.
Jonathan arrived in Babangida’s house at 5:15pm.
Among those present at Babangida’s house with President Jonathan were Vice President Namadi Sambo; Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Arc. Mohammed Sada; the Minister for Special Duties, Saminu Turaki; the Minister of State for Agriculture, Hajia Asmau Asabe Ahmed; the Director General of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation, Ahmadu Alli; Prof. Jerry Gana; and the PDP National Chairman, Adamu Mu’azu.
Also, the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago, assured President Jonathan that royal fathers in the state will support and pray for him.
Bahago added that Jonathan has done a lot to better the lives of Nigerians.
He said: “By the special grace of God, you are our number one citizen and leader.
“We appreciate your enormous works.
“We will lend our necessary support and pray for your success.
“You have tried to make Nigeria excel with your transformation programmes.
“We therefore owe you a duty to support you.
“But know this: power belongs to God.
“He gives it to whoever He pleases and takes it from whoever He pleases.”
Earlier, President Jonathan had told the Emir that in the last four years, his administration has done well in the area of agriculture and mass transit.
He added: “If given the opportunity, I promise to take the country to a greater height by making it a country of taking in and not taking out.”
