Muhammed Babangida, son of former Nigerian military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has turned down a federal appointment offered to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a letter dated July 21, 2025, and addressed to President Tinubu, Muhammed Babangida formally declined the appointment to serve as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture. He expressed deep appreciation for the honour, describing the consideration as a privilege and a recognition of his capacity to contribute to national development.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude for the honour of being considered and appointed as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture. It is a true privilege to be thought worthy of such a strategic role in advancing the nation’s agricultural and economic development,” he wrote.
However, Babangida stated that after “careful reflection and consultation,” he had chosen to respectfully reject the appointment, citing a convergence of personal and professional reasons that would not allow him to commit fully to the responsibilities the role demands.
“This decision was not made lightly. It stems from a convergence of personal and professional considerations which, at this time, would not allow me to serve with the level of focus and commitment the position rightly demands,” the letter stated.
Despite declining the role, Muhammed Babangida reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s administration and its vision for a prosperous and self-sufficient Nigeria.
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“I continue to hold your administration in the highest regard and stand ready to support national development in other ways where my expertise may be of service,” he concluded.
The development comes at a time when the Tinubu-led government is intensifying efforts to revamp the agricultural sector as a key driver of economic diversification and food security. The appointment of a figure as prominent as Muhammed Babangida had been seen as part of the administration’s push to attract capable hands into key sectors.
The appointment is also seen by some analysts as a way to woo strong political alliances ahead of the 2027 general election.
His decision to opt out, however, has drawn mixed reactions from political watchers, with some praising his honesty and self-awareness, while others speculate on deeper political undertones.
