Former Nigerian military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida has said he is confident of becoming the country's next president.

Babangida disclosed this to reporters in Lagos on Friday, saying he would win next year's presidential election.

According to him, he had the experience to turn Nigeria's economy around.

"I believe that it is possible and I have the experience to make it possible," the former military ruler told reporters at the presidential lounge of the Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

He said those who are criticizing him do not really know him.

"Perception is the way you look at things. If you call me a thief and you can prove it, you know what to do," he added.

According to Babangida, winning an election takes two things, which he thinks he has, the political party and the people.

Babangida ruled Nigeria from Aug. 27, 1985 through Aug. 27, 1993.

Source: Xinhua