A Journey in Service is the autobiography of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), Nigeria's former military president. Released in February 2025,[1] the memoir offers a comprehensive look into Babangida's life, from his early years to his tenure as Nigeria's leader, and provides insights into the nation's political evolution during his time in office.[2][3]
A Journey in Service is an autobiography by Ibrahim Babangida, in which he recounts his life, military career, and time in leadership. The book was developed over several years and provides Babangida’s perspective on key political and economic events that took place during his tenure from 1985 to 1993.
Babangida’s decision to write the book was reportedly influenced by encouragement from associates such as Dr. Chidi Amuta and Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, who suggested that he document his experiences for historical reference. Both individuals, known for their contributions to Nigerian literature and media, emphasized the importance of preserving firsthand accounts of significant events in the country’s history.[4]
The memoir presents Babangida's personal account of his life and tenure, discussing both achievements and controversies. The writing process involved recollecting and documenting events, with an emphasis on balancing personal experiences with historical context.[5]
The book, spanning 420 pages, is structured into multiple sections covering Babangida's early life in Minna, Nigeria, his military career, and key events in his political journey. It details his deployment to the 1st Division under General Mohammed Shuwa during the Nigerian Civil War, his role in military operations within Biafran territory, and his involvement in the 1975 Nigerian coup d'état.[6] The book also examines major events such as the 1985 coup that brought him to power, the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), and the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. Babangida provides his perspective on these events, outlining the context and reasoning behind his decisions.[7]
Content
Early life and education: Born in Minna, Nigeria, Babangida details his upbringing, including the loss of his parents at a young age. He attended the Provincial Secondary School in Bida, where he was a contemporary with future Nigerian leaders such as General Abdulsalami Abubakar.[8][9] His interest in the military was sparked during this period, and he was influenced by mentors like Pa Onimole and career talks from officers like Captain Yakubu Gowon. This passion led him to enlist in the Nigerian Army, setting the stage for his future roles in the nation's military and political spheres.[10]
Military career and rise to power: Babangida's military journey is marked by significant events, including his active participation in the Nigerian Civil War, during which he sustained injuries. He recounts his involvement in key coups, notably the 1975 Nigerian coup d'état that brought General Murtala Mohammed to power and the 1983 coup that ousted Shehu Shagari. In 1985, Babangida became Nigeria's military president after leading a coup against General Muhammadu Buhari.
Presidency and governance: During his tenure from 1985 to 1993, Babangida implemented several economic and political reforms. He introduced the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) in 1986, aiming to revitalize Nigeria's economy through measures like deregulation and privatization.[11] His administration also established institutions such as the Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) to promote social and economic development. Infrastructure projects, including the completion of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, were also highlights of his regime.[12]
June 12 election and annulment: One of the most contentious episodes of Babangida's presidency was the annulment of the June 12, 1993,[13] presidential election, widely regarded as free and fair, with Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola poised to win.[14] In his memoir, Babangida reflects on this decision, acknowledging it as a challenging and painful moment in his leadership. He expresses regret over the annulment, recognizing its profound impact on Nigeria's democratic journey.[15][16][17]
Personal reflections: Beyond his public life, Babangida shares personal anecdotes, including his marriage to Maryam Babangida.[18] He credits his recovery from war injuries as a pivotal moment leading to their union. Maryam's influential role as Nigeria's First Lady, particularly her initiatives aimed at improving the lives of rural women, is also highlighted in the book.[19][20]
The book launch event included financial contributions from several Nigerian business figures, totaling nearly ₦17 billion.[28]Aliko Dangote pledged ₦8 billion, distributed as ₦2 billion annually over four years, while Abdul Samad Rabiu contributed ₦5 billion. T.Y. Danjuma committed ₦3 billion, and Arthur Eze donated ₦500 million.[29][30] These funds were intended to support the development of the IBB Presidential Library, which aims to serve as a center for preserving Nigeria's arts, political, and military history.[31]
Critical Reception
Prof Yemi Osinbajo, in his review, highlighted the book as a significant contribution to understanding Nigeria's political history. He noted that it offers insights into the complexities of governance and the challenges faced during Babangida's tenure.[3]
Conversely, other critics argue that the autobiography serves more as a self-justification than a candid reflection. Olufunmike Imoiko, writing for The Lagos Review, described the memoir as an attempt to sanitize Babangida's controversial role in Nigeria's history. She points out that while the book presents his version of events, it often sidesteps or downplays the more contentious aspects of his rule, such as the annulment of the June 12 election and the economic hardships resulting from SAP.[32] Similarly, Festus Adedayo, in the Nigerian Tribune, critiqued the memoir for omitting certain harsh realities Nigerians faced during Babangida's regime. He suggests that while the book covers various events of his administration, it fails to fully acknowledge the negative impacts of certain policies and decisions.[15]
Controversy
The release of A Journey in Service generated debate, particularly regarding his depiction of the January 1966 coup. In the memoir, Babangida states that the coup was not orchestrated by the Igbo ethnic group, presenting a perspective that differs from some historical narratives.[33] This claim prompted responses from various groups, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization.[34]
Following the book's publication, Ohanaeze Ndigbo called for a public apology from Nigeria President Bola Tinubu and requested ₦10 trillion in compensation, citing longstanding grievances related to perceived marginalization since 1966.[35][36][37] They argued that misrepresentations of the coup’s origins had contributed to discrimination against the Igbo community. Similarly, the Njiko Igbo Forum, an affiliate of Ohanaeze, advocated for ₦100 trillion in reparations, highlighting the economic and social impact of historical narratives surrounding the coup.[38][39][40]
The book reignited discussions about the legal and ethical implications of the annulment, as well as broader concerns regarding accountability and justice for decisions made during Nigeria’s military rule.[41] Babangida’s statements in the memoir led human rights lawyer Femi Falana to consider pursuing legal action against him.[42]
Falana, who was arrested and detained in 1993 for protesting the annulment, maintains that Babangida’s remarks support his long-held belief that the election was wrongfully annulled.[43] He argues that his prosecution at the time was unwarranted and violated his fundamental human rights. Asserting that Babangida’s acknowledgment highlights the unjust nature of the arrests and detentions of pro-democracy activists during that period.[44][45]
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