Muhammed Babangida, son of Nigeria’s former military leader Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), has turned down his recent appointment by President Bola Tinubu to serve as chairman of the Bank of Agriculture.
The development was revealed through a letter dated July 21, 2025, which was shared publicly by Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine, on Monday.
In the letter titled “Declining Appointment as Chairman, Bank of Agriculture,” Muhammed cited both personal and professional reasons for his decision.
“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.
“After careful reflection and consultation, I have decided, with utmost respect, to decline the appointment. 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.
“Your Excellency, I remain fully committed to the vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Nigeria under your leadership. 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.
“Thank you once again for your confidence in me. I am deeply appreciative.”
Reacting to the decision, Dele Momodu—who recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—applauded Muhammed’s move, writing on Instagram:
“Well done, Muhammed, for rejecting a Greek gift.”
Muhammed had been named in a new wave of appointments made by President Tinubu just two days earlier. In a related reaction, the ADC criticized the move, accusing Tinubu of using strategic appointments to win over Northern support ahead of the 2027 general elections.