INTERVIEW: Fighting against my friends during civil war a sad experience – Babangida

His Excellency, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), a former military head of state, spoke in an interview with Search FM, a Campus Radio, covering various aspects of his life, military service, and the civil war. The interview was monitored by Priscilla Dennis, a correspondent from DAILY POST.

Reflecting on his upbringing in Niger State (formerly the Niger province), General Babangida noted that he was born in Minna in 1941 and completed his primary and secondary education in Minna and Bida, respectively. He then pursued military training at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna, Military Academy in India, and other military institutions.

When asked about his decision to enlist in the military, General Babangida explained that a deliberate government policy aimed to increase Northern representation in the military, leading to invitations extended to the younger generation from secondary schools.

Recalling his experience during the Nigerian civil war, General Babangida expressed the discomfort of facing friends and schoolmates on opposing sides. He emphasized the purpose of the war was to unite the country, not to divide it.

If not for his military career, General Babangida disclosed that he aspired to be a civil engineer. Regarding his leadership style, he emphasized the importance of studying and understanding human behavior, combining compassion with sometimes necessary ruthlessness to achieve goals.

In retirement, General Babangida mentioned his enjoyment of watching children grow. Reflecting on his achievements, he prioritized serving the country to the best of his ability, fostering good relations with the people, and gaining extensive knowledge of the country through travel.

Addressing young people, he advised them to understand that they are future leaders and encouraged them to study and know the country. In a lighthearted moment, he commented on a biopic about his life, acknowledging its attempt to provide food for thought but noting areas that could be improved for accuracy.