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Tag: Buratai

  • Buratai proposes special fund to accelerate defence technology development

    Buratai proposes special fund to accelerate defence technology development

    Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, has proposed the establishment of a National Defence Innovation Fund (NDIF) through public–private partnerships to finance research and development in critical dual-use technologies.

    He said such a framework would ensure that defence spending stimulates innovation within the civilian technology sector.

    Buratai said this on Monday while delivering a lecture titled “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development,” at the National Symposium/Lecture Series to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) in Abuja.

    According to him, the priority areas include cyber defence, unmanned aerial systems, satellite communications, and renewable energy solutions for forward operating bases (FOBs).

    Buratai, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Benin Republic, urged the country to reposition the Armed Forces as a catalyst for national development and long-term stability. He called for far-reaching reforms in Nigeria’s security and governance architecture to secure the nation’s future.

    He advocated the accelerated professionalisation and specialisation of the Armed Forces, stressing the need for a strategic refocus toward high-intensity combat and external defence.

    Buratai emphasised that internal security responsibilities should increasingly be assumed by an expanded, better-equipped Police Force, professionalised under a funded multi-year plan to reach a strength of about 1.5 million officers. He said this would dismantle the current dependence on the military for routine internal security duties.

    The former army chief called for a revised National Service and Veterans’ Framework, including reforming the National Youth Service Corps into a mandatory National Service Scheme with both military and civic tracks to promote skill acquisition and national cohesion.

    He urged the passage of a Veterans’ Rights and Transition Act to guarantee timely pensions, healthcare access, skill conversion programmes, and legal protections for retired personnel.

    Buratai also recommended the institutionalisation of permanent Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) directorates within the Ministry of Defence and service headquarters to ensure structured collaboration with civilian ministries in post-conflict development, while preventing mission creep by the military.

    Speaking on regional security, Buratai stressed the need to deepen cooperation through multilateral frameworks such as the Multinational Joint Task Force and the Gulf of Guinea maritime security architecture, noting that collective action remained critical to addressing transnational threats and fostering regional stability.

    Discussants of the paper included Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (retd), Air Vice Marshal E. A. Wonah (retd), and Rear Admiral Solomon Agada (retd), while Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun (retd) moderated the panel discussion.

  • Buratai denies terrorism financing allegations, says claim fabricated

    Buratai denies terrorism financing allegations, says claim fabricated

    Former Chief of Army Staff and Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt.-General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has said that the insinuation that he was connected, “directly or indirectly”, to terrorism financing is entirely fabricated

    He said the insinuation was also inconsistent with facts, and fundamentally at odds with his values and lifelong commitment to defending the country against terrorism. 

    Buratai said this in a statement on Saturday, signed on his behalf by former Army’s spokesperson, Brig.-General Sani Kukasheka Usman, following an online publication linking some prominent individuals to terrorism financiers.

    However, the statement described such allegations as “false, unfounded, mischievous, and amount to a smear campaign deliberately designed to tarnish his name and reputation.”

    It said: “At no point in his distinguished career has he ever been questioned, investigated, indicted, or associated with any such matter by any official body or authority. No security institution, intelligence agency, judicial panel, diplomatic mission, oversight mechanism, or administrative body has ever linked him with terrorism financing in any form. 

    “The narrative being circulated by Sahara Reporters, relying solely on the unverified personal claims of Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi (rtd), is therefore a clear misrepresentation borne out of malice and lacks any factual or legal foundation.”

    The statement stated that it was “regrettable, though unsurprising,” that the online publication had once again attempted to drag the precious name into disrepute, a pattern he said it has repeatedly pursued over the years, albeit unsuccessfully. 

    “Each attempt has failed because his record remains forthright, transparent, and distinguished by honourable service to the nation,” it said. 

    The statement said that for over four decades, General Buratai served the country with “honour, courage and steadfast commitment” to defeating terrorism, emphasizing under his leadership, the Nigerian Army significantly degraded Boko Haram and ISWAP, recovered previously occupied territories, restored civil administration, and returned displaced Nigerians to their homes. 

    “It defies logic and conscience to suggest that the same person who led decisive actions against terrorism would in any way be associated with the very elements he spent his career confronting,” it said. 

    The statement, therefore, called on Sahara Reporters and Major General Ali-Keffi (rtd) to immediately retract their publication and tender an unreserved public apology to General Buratai. 

    “Failure to do so will leave us with no option but to initiate appropriate legal proceedings to protect his reputation and seek redress for this malicious attack,” it said. 

  • ACF@25: North must reset now, say Dalhatu, Buratai, Ribadu

    ACF@25: North must reset now, say Dalhatu, Buratai, Ribadu

    Notable northern elders, political leaders, and cultural figures yesterday called for bold solutions to long-standing insecurity and development challenges across the region.

    They spoke at the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna.

    The silver jubilee programme featured technology and entrepreneurship exhibitions, women-focused pavilions, cultural nights, and an awards ceremony aimed at showcasing the North’s potential and celebrating innovation.

    Opening the session, ACF’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu (Wazirin Dutse), emphasised the need for modern development models that empower youth and reduce inequality. “We must begin in earnest to plunge into modern developmental efforts,” he said.

    The BoT chairman noted that the ACF has created platforms where experts could mentor young entrepreneurs and guide innovative projects.

    Dalhatu stated that inclusive development — not just economic growth — should define the North’s future.

    He highlighted the forum’s goal of bridging the gap between the haves and have-nots while reinforcing the message of unity under the mantra, “North is one people, one North.”

    Read Also: Nnamdi Kanu: All hope not lost, political solution underway – Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Dalhatu also acknowledged the region’s security challenges and called for more effective strategies from security actors.

    “We appreciate their sacrifices, but it is time to look for further, better, more effective means of curtailing insecurity,” he said.

    A former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), described the milestone as a moment to reflect on the past progress and future challenges.

    The former Army chief noted that the event’s focus on youths under the theme: Creative Economy: Engaging the Youth, as critical to reversing the North’s development deficits.

    “Northern Nigeria is a microcosm of the nation. When one part of the country develops, that progress translates to others,” he said.

    Representatives of Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) also addressed the gathering, emphasising the need for national unity and strategic approaches to tourism as a tool for security and community development.

    There was a high-level roundtable on “Tourism for Security,” chaired by Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, underscored the connection between economic opportunity and stability. “Tourism and security are inseparable. Visitors will not explore our heritage sites or cultural festivals if they fear for their safety,” she said, adding that insecurity often stems from exclusion, poverty, and alienation.

    Musawa called for collaboration between government, investors, communities, and security agencies to safeguard heritage sites and protect the region’s developmental vision.

    Other dignitaries at the event included a former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; former Kaduna State Governor Ramalan Yero; Nasiru Gwamdu Sardaunan Dutse, and the Emir of Zazzau’s representative, the Wazirin Zazzau, Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa, alongside other northern elders.

    The ACF’s 25th anniversary celebration served as a reflection on the past and a call to action, emphasiding that the North must adopt innovative, inclusive, and security-conscious strategies to ensure sustainable growth and unity for the region’s future.

  • Wike tackles Buratai over comment on clash with naval officer

    Wike tackles Buratai over comment on clash with naval officer

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike on Thursday expressed disappointment over what he described as misinterpretation of the incident that occurred last Tuesday with Naval officers led by Lt A.M Yerima.

    Wike questioned the comment by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), that his action is a threat to national security and a slight on the authority of President Bola Tinubu..

    The Minister, who addressed reporters at his official residence at Life Camp, faulted Buratai, for asking him to apologise to Lt. Yerima for the incident which happened in Gaduwa District of Abuja, saying the former Army chief cannot educate him about decency.

    The Minister also did not spare Yarima for his role in the altercation that escalated over the disputed parcel of land that belonged to former Naval Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, which the FCT Administration said was illegal.

    He accused the naval officer of accepting an illegal order in stark contravention of the rule of law.

    Wike said: “I read what one former Chief of Army Staff wrote. He cannot tell me of decency and he can’t teach me. This was the same man who (allegedly) directed his GOC to rig election, my election in 2019. He couldn’t rig me. He lost.

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    “He told his GOC to kill me and I could not be killed. He became an agent in APC primaries to one of APC’s presidential aspirants. Look at the rank of a polling agent. He is the one commenting that the minister did this and that. I have never seen people like this.

    “I have no regrets for my political opponents. I will continue to make them have sleepless nights. Whether you are in PDP, whether you are in APC, whether you are in ADC, it is not my business.

    ” I have no regrets supporting President Tinubu and I have never hidden my intention and I will continue to do what is right. So, if you like to write anything you want to write, as far as I know, I am standing by the side of the law. If you like, bring every ethnicity coloration, it is your business”.

    Wike also blamed Lt. Yerima for the part in shoving by insisting he acted within the confines of his authority as a Minister representing President Bola Tinubu.

    He said: “I mean, anybody should know. Yes, you are a young man and you are a commissioned officer. Mr man, I am a Minister and I’m representing Mr. President. That alone should have given you that decorum. But no, no you chose to challenge the Minister representing the President.

    “And then you think that I am not a human being, I have no emotions. You are carrying out an illegal job. When people say, Order, do you need to carry out an illegal order? When you are an officer, you are doing something illegal. Even if it’s a legal order given to you, that job you are doing is illegal. I went there as an institution not a private individual, they arrested our officials”.

    He cautioned everyone irrespective of position to respect the rule of law at all times.

  • Insecurity: Nigeria should shut borders to deal with terrorism, says ex-COAS Buratai

    Insecurity: Nigeria should shut borders to deal with terrorism, says ex-COAS Buratai

    A former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai has called for   a lockdown of the country’s borders as part of the measures to tackle security challenges.

    He advocated that the lockdown should be  similar to the step taken during the  COVID-19 pandemic.

    Buratai spoke yesterday  on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily where he said  that Nigeria needed to invest heavily in checking insecurity as the current level of  threat poses serious danger to the country.

    He also called for increased collaboration among political, traditional, and religious leaders at the community level to find a lasting solution  to insecurity.

    Buratai, who had warned during his tenure as COAS  that the insurgency could last for a long time,  stressed  the need for a long-term plan to counter terrorism.

    He said  the Nigerian military should be seen as a solution to the security challenge , rather than a hindrance because as he said, defeating insecurity requires a holistic approach.

    Read Also: Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda

    His words:“It was started through some political actors, and it was essentially a political issue.

    “This insecurity is essentially political, and now, it’s been left to the military, and the political actors are staying behind.

    “So, this is something that is needed for a total review of the security aspect in terms of political associations or political involvement and so on.”

    Buratai also named  economic challenges as some of the contributing factors to the rising levels of insecurity in Nigeria.

    “It’s very clear that apart from the military, we have the economic line, you know, we have the social line, we have the political line — very important,” he said

  • Buhari led with honesty, resolute commitment to national service – Buratai

    Buhari led with honesty, resolute commitment to national service – Buratai

    Former Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has described former President Muhammadu Buhari as an “honest leader, who led with simplicity and a resolute commitment to national service.”

    In his condolence message, Buratai, who served as the Chief of Army Staff for six years under the late President, said Buhari’s place in the country’s history is firmly cemented, and his legacy will continue to guide generations yet unborn.

    He said, “I remain forever grateful for the trust he reposed in me when, in 2021, he appointed me as the Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army on 27 May 2021, at the rank of Major General and subsequently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and gave the mandate to continue the fight against insurgency and other security threats across the country.

    “Throughout my tenure as the Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, President Buhari provided me with strategic direction, consistent support, and the enabling environment to succeed, particularly in the fight against Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping.”

    Read Also: ‘He was our pride’: Daura mourns ex-President Buhari

    According to Buratai, under Buhari’s leadership, the Nigerian Army became more professional, better equipped, and more effectively trained to tackle contemporary security challenges.

    “I am proud of the accomplishments recorded during my tenure. These achievements are directly attributed to President Buhari’s visionary leadership, guidance and commitment to national security,” he said.

    While praying for the repose of Buhari’s soul, Buratai extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Daura, and the government and people of Katsina State. 

  • Ndume denies saying Buratai was attacked by Boko Haram

    Ndume denies saying Buratai was attacked by Boko Haram

    Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume has denied reports attributed to him that a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen.  Tukur Buratai narrowly escaped death when his convoy was attacked last Friday in Borno State by Boko Haram insurgents.

    Ndume was alleged to have made the claim when speaking on a national television programme on Sunday.

    In a statement yesterday, Ndume dismissed the reports as misleading and a misrepresentation of what he said.

    Read Also: Ndume hails Tinubu’s appointment of Northerners into key agencies

    The former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South explained that “it was Buratai town in Borno State that was attacked, not the person of the erstwhile Chief of Army Staff General Tukur Buratai who hails from Buratai town in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.”

    He said:  “Even two days ago, Buratai (town) was attacked in front of the operations base in Borno. But the soldiers stood up to them,  but they  (the attackers) burnt down some of our assets.

    “Normally, these days they burn assets like Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPs), tanks, and heavy-duty machine guns that we have, and sometimes they steal some of these ‘’

  • Second anniversary: Buratai applauds Tinubu’s economic policies

    Second anniversary: Buratai applauds Tinubu’s economic policies

    …urges governors to step up security efforts

    Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. T.Y. Buratai (rtd), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies as the administration marked its second year in office.

    Speaking at the Timelineng Lecture held in Lagos on the theme: “Importance of the Media in Information Gathering, Disclosure in the Face of Security Challenges, the Achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Other Barriers”, Gen. Buratai praised the president’s economic direction, citing positive indicators as evidence of progress.

    While acknowledging that more work remains, Buratai described the thematic strategy adopted at the recent economic summit in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, as a commendable and effective approach.

    He also called on state governors to take greater responsibility for the security of their respective states, noting that the Nigerian Constitution does not restrict them from playing an active role in ensuring safety and order.

    Addressing the role of the media, Buratai stressed the importance of a collaborative relationship between journalists and security agencies to avoid compromising national security and Nigeria’s sovereignty.

    He said, “As we have explored, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements highlight a commitment to transparency and accountability, yet they also underscore the barriers that persist in fostering an environment conducive to free expression. The media serves not only as a watchdog but also as a bridge between the government and the populace, ensuring that citizens remain informed and engaged. 

    “It is imperative for both state actors and civil society to recognize that a robust media landscape is essential for democracy; it empowers individuals with knowledge while holding power to account.

    ” In navigating these complex dynamics, we must champion the freedom of the press as an ally in our collective pursuit of security and justice.

    “The media are a critical institution in promoting peace and democratic governance. Careful dissemination of information enables the public to make sound decisions. Responsible journalism fosters political stability and national security. Nevertheless, irresponsible journalism can turn into a deadly monster that takes lives, destroys property, weakens economies, and channels human and disenfranchised grieves in myriad destructive ways.

    “Silencing the media for national security imperatives can create a space for the media to act irresponsibly. Maintaining a balance between undiluted human rights imperatives and genuine national security considerations in contrast to hypocrisy and spinning lies is a formidable challenges. 

    ” As then COAS, I maintained a robust relationship with the media, between July 2015 and January 2021, the Nigerian Army embedded journalists during operational tours of the COAS. There was regular press briefings and media engagements.

    “I initiated the NA Social – Media Dialogue which is still being conducted on quarterly basis among others initiatives. 

    On why Nigerian governors should do more, Buratai added, “The Nigerian constitution does not prevent state governors from securing their states and the people. 

    “In fact, the constitution grants them significant autonomy in decision-making, including matters of security and governance. While the federal government holds ultimate power over the police and the the military, the state governors are empowered to manage and coordinate security efforts within their states. 

    “The constitution recognizes the 36 states and their respective governors as having substantial independence in managing state affairs, including security.

    “The 1999 Nigerian constitution (as amended) grants state governments a significant degree of autonomy, primarily outlined in sections 4(7) and 7(1).

    “State governors are responsible for maintaining peace and order within their states, coordinating with federal security forces as needed. 

    “The Nigerian Constitution outlines state government security responsibilities primarily through Section 11 concerning public order and public security, and Section 215 regarding the role of the Nigeria Police Force. While the Constitution passively designate state governors as “Chief Security Officers,” it grants them authority to direct the Commissioner of Police within their state, subject to potential federal oversight. 

    “While the police are a federal agency, states can establish their own security agencies and work with federal authorities to maintain security. “Fortunately, the National Assembly is currently considering the creation of State Police in the constitution.  

    “The constitution encourages cooperation between state and federal governments on security matters, with the state governors playing a key role in coordinating efforts within their jurisdictions. 

    “The 1999 Nigerian Constitution outlines provisions for cooperation and coordination between state governments, primarily focusing on financial matters and the establishment and functioning of local government councils. Specifically, Sections 7 and 162 address these aspects. 

    ” It is in this regard that I call on all the state governors across the country to review their security strategy and take the bull by the horn to ensure the security of their states. 

    “There is no amount of funds spent saving a life is wasted. The indigenes must exist first before consideration of other essentials of living. The state governments must invest in technology, human resource development, education, empowerment and road infrastructures in order to enhance security.”

  • Buratai mourns Hajiya ‘Yar’Adua, encourages family to uphold legacy

    Buratai mourns Hajiya ‘Yar’Adua, encourages family to uphold legacy

    Former Chief of Army Staff, and Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Benin Republic Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), has paid a condolence visit to Katsina to extend his heartfelt condolences to the ‘Yar’adua family following the passing of their revered matriarch, Hajiya Habiba Dada Musa ‘Yar’adua.

    Upon his arrival at the family home, Buratai was warmly received by Senator Abdulaziz Musa ‘Yar’adua, Matawallen Katsina, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Alhaji Mustapha and Major General Abubakar Adamu (rtd).

     In a solemn moment, Buratai offered prayers for the repose of Hajiya Dada’s soul, asking for Allah’s continuous blessings and protection over the family and the enduring legacy she left behind.

    The former Ambassador to the Benin Republic also spoke highly of the late Hajiya Dada, describing her as a mother anyone could wish for, whose legacy of strength, humility, and dedication to her family and community was nothing short of remarkable.

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    He emphasized that her influence would be deeply missed by all who knew her and encouraged the family to take solace and pride in the indelible mark she left on Nigeria’s history.

    In response, Senator Musa ‘Yar’adua expressed profound gratitude to Buratai for his presence and kind words.

    He described Buratai as a true leader whose contributions to national development, peace, and security are beyond measure.

    The Senator also highlighted General Buratai’s compassion and dedication to the welfare of troops,  and veterans, both in service and after retirement.

    Buratai was accompanied on the condolence visit by Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd) mni, Honourable Alhaji Aminu Balele (Dan Arewa), and Alhaji Ibrahim Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi, among others.

  • Ex-Army chief, Buratai leads war against fire outbreak

    Ex-Army chief, Buratai leads war against fire outbreak

    The Nigerian Humanitarian Action (NIHA) has enlisted former Chief of Army Staff, General Yusuf Buratai (retd) to lead the war against the raging fire outbreaks sweeping across Nigeria.

    Gen. Buratai, a decorated war hero and seasoned leader, was officially unveiled on Tuesday in Abuja as the chairman of the Fire Prevention Week and Expo, NIHA’s flagship program in the United States.

    Buratai will be supported in the Fire Prevention campaign by a team of distinguished individuals, including:

    Chief Morgan Okwoche, retired Managing Director of Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria, a subsidiary of NNPCL, and Other notable Nigerians with expertise in fire safety and prevention.

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    The organisation said the appointment acknowledges General Buratai’s exceptional leadership qualities and his commitment to driving positive change.

    The chairman of NIHA, Dr. Kletsaint Akor lauded General Buratai’s appointment, highlighting his “impeccable pedigrees, unwavering integrity, and selfless dedication to Nigeria.”

    Akor said the upcoming fire expo, led by General Buratai, will bring together the globally recognised National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Nigerian fire professionals and businessmen.

    “This collaboration aims to enhance fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices,” Akor stated.

    The Comptroller General of the Federal Fire Service, Jaji Abdulganiyu, who endorsed the appointment, stated that fire safety is a shared responsibility that demands a united effort.

    Abdulganiyu, who spoke through the Deputy Comptroller of Fire, Suleiman Anas, advised Nigerians to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their properties from fire hazards.

    The Comptroller-General expressed confidence that General Buratai’s leadership in the campaign and Fire Prevention Week and Expo would significantly mitigate fire incidents in Nigeria.