Babangida arrives for Republic Day celebration

Accra, June 30, GNA - Former Nigerian President, Ibrahim Babangida, arrived in the country this afternoon at the invitation of President John Agyekum Kufuor.

The former Nigerian leader is expected to join Ghanaians in the celebration of Ghana's Republic Day, which falls on Thursday July 1. At the airport to meet him were the Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama, Government officials and the Nigerian Ambassador, Dr Olatunji Kolapo. Former Nigerian President calls on President Kufuor Accra, June 30, GNA - Former Nigerian President General Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida on a three-day visit to Ghana on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on President John Agyekum Kufuor at the Castle, Osu. President Babangida was invited by the Government to participate in Ghana's 44th anniversary celebrations of Republican status.

He would visit the Akosombo Dam together with the Mauritius Prime Minister, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, who is expected in Accra tonight and attend a State banquet at the Banquet Hall on Thursday, July 1. President Kufuor said the visit by President Babangida would serve as an impetus to deepen the cordial relationship between the two-sister-countries - Ghana and Nigeria.

"Ghana and Nigeria would be moving the West African Sub-Region to an effective and efficient socio-economic development when both of them are together", he said.

President Kufuor said: "Ghana was delighted to have such a distinguished son of Africa, who managed his country so well during his tenure of office and his name has been an imprint in many places even today to participate in our 44th Republic Day Anniversary Celebrations."

President Babangida said: "The visit was like homecoming. I feel honoured to be at home."

He commended President Kufuor for his leadership qualities that had led to the maintenance of peace and stability within the Sub-Region. Present was Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama. 30 June 04