Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan accompanied by Sambo Dasuki, National Security Adviser, Bala Muhammed, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, and Ahmadu Ali, a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were reported to have visited Former Military Ruler, Ibrahim Babangida in his home town Minna, Nigeria to discuss issues of national concerns among other things, Premium Times Nigeria reports.
Speaking after the meeting, President Jonathan told journalists that he went to visit ‘his father’ who recently returned from a medical trip outside the country.
“First and foremost, I have to use this opportunity to appreciate our leader, President Babangida for his leadership. His commitment to ensuring that this country is united and we leave in peace,” Mr. Jonathan said. “Of course, you know that this is the end of the year. Within this period, people pay visits. So I have come to visit him. You know he just came back from a hospital abroad, not too long ago. Since he came back, we have not seen. I need to see my father to know how he is feeling. I am quite pleased the way I have seen him.”
“Of course, you all know that as a nation, we are facing challenges: security challenges all over, not just in the North. Yes, Boko Haram in the North. The South is not safe: commercial kidnapping and robbery. “He is one of our experienced leaders. As somebody who is sat where he was before, I need to see them from time to time to listen to their suggestions. That is one of the areas we can collectively move the country forward and ensure that Nigerians live in peace,” he said.
According to President Jonathan, the discussion he had with former President Babangida was fruitful and General Babangida, in his response to Journalists encouraged Nigerians to support President Jonathan to ensure Nigeria continues to remain united.
“What I will say is simple: The President means well for this country and he is working well for this country. Anybody who means well for this country should support the President to make sure that Nigeria survives as a united country,” Babangida said.
