The tenure of His Excellency, Amb. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai CFR (Rtd) because the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from 2015 to 2021 was marked by a sequence of exceptional achievements that not solely remodeled the Nigerian Military but additionally considerably contributed to nationwide safety and stability which are worthy of emulation.
Lt. Common Buratai’s visionary management and unwavering dedication to service have left an indelible mark on the army panorama of Nigeria, inspiring a brand new era of troopers and instilling a way of delight within the armed forces.
Reclaiming territories from Boko Haram:
Below Common Buratai’s astute management, the Nigerian Military efficiently reclaimed massive swathes of territory beforehand beneath the management of Boko Haram in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. This monumental achievement was pivotal in restoring civil governance in areas that had been lengthy overrun by insurgents. Main highways, together with the Maiduguri-Bama and Damaturu-Maiduguri roads, have been reopened, facilitating the return of displaced communities and the resurgence of native economies. This strategic reclamation of territory not solely enhanced safety but additionally rekindled hope among the many populace.
Institution of latest army formations: Common Buratai acknowledged the necessity for a extra agile and responsive army construction, resulting in the institution of significant instructions and formations. The creation of the Nigerian Military Particular Forces Command and the Military Aviation Corps considerably enhanced operational flexibility and bolstered counter-insurgency efforts. These formations have been instrumental in executing complicated army operations with precision and effectivity, making certain that the Nigerian Military was all the time a step forward of threats.
Modernisation of army gear:
A cornerstone of Common Buratai’s tenure was the modernization of army gear. Below his management, the Military acquired state-of-the-art armored autos, superior artillery techniques, and fight drones. This modernization drive considerably elevated the Military’s firepower and tactical capabilities, enabling troops to interact successfully in multifaceted fight eventualities. The infusion of contemporary expertise into army operations not solely enhanced operational effectiveness but additionally ensured that Nigerian troopers have been outfitted to face modern safety challenges.
Institution of Nigerian Military College, Biu, Borno State: In 2018, Common Buratai based the Nigerian Military College Biu (NAUB) in Borno State, specializing in advancing army schooling and analysis. NAUB serves as a hub for innovation and expertise in army operations, equipping future leaders with the data and expertise essential to navigate the complexities of contemporary warfare. This initiative displays Buratai’s dedication to fostering a tradition of steady studying and adaptation inside the ranks of the Nigerian Military.
Enchancment of troopers’ welfare:
Common Buratai championed the welfare of troopers, introducing varied initiatives aimed toward enhancing their high quality of life. Housing initiatives, instructional alternatives, and enhanced healthcare companies have been pivotal in enhancing the morale and effectiveness of troops. Notably, the institution of among the finest hospitals in Abuja, the Command and NAOWA Hospital, underscored Buratai’s dedication to making sure that troopers had entry to top-notch medical care, reinforcing the Military’s dedication to its personnel.
Promotion of civil-military relations:
Understanding the significance of public assist, Common Buratai emphasised mutual belief and understanding between the Military and civilians. His efforts in selling civil-military relations fostered collaboration and enhanced public confidence within the army. This strategy was essential in making certain that the Military may function successfully inside communities, gaining the assist and cooperation of the populace within the struggle in opposition to insurgency.
Help for Democracy: Throughout election durations, Common Buratai performed a impartial and stabilizing function, making certain that the Nigerian Military upheld constitutional order. His dedication to supporting democracy was evident within the Military’s skilled conduct throughout elections, reinforcing the army’s function as a guardian of democracy in Nigeria.
Nigerian Military farms and ranches:
To bolster meals safety and supply different welfare assist for troopers and their households, Common Buratai established agricultural tasks by the Nigerian Military Farms and Ranches initiative. This revolutionary strategy not solely addressed the dietary wants of troops but additionally contributed to the {economic} well-being of army households, making a sustainable mannequin of assist.
Nigerian Military institute of expertise and environmental research: Common Buratai based the Nigerian Military Institute of Know-how and Environmental Research to equip troopers with technical and environmental expertise, facilitating their transition to civilian life after service. This initiative displays Buratai’s forward-thinking strategy to army service, making certain that troopers are ready for post-service careers in a quickly altering world.
Advocacy for cultural integration in safety: Even after his retirement, Common Buratai continued to advocate for the combination of Nigeria’s wealthy cultural heritage into nationwide safety methods. He emphasised that no indigenous tradition helps criminality, selling a story that seeks to unify reasonably than divide. His efforts on this regard spotlight his perception within the energy of tradition as a software for peace and safety.
Military structural enlargement beneath Buratai:
Common Buratai’s tenure noticed the institution of latest divisions and brigades, together with the sixth Division (Amphibious) in Port Harcourt and the eighth Division in Sokoto State. This structural enlargement was essential in enhancing the Military’s operational capabilities and making certain a strong response to rising safety challenges throughout the nation.
Infrastructural tasks and capability constructing: A trademark of Common Buratai’s legacy is the in depth infrastructure tasks initiated throughout his tenure. These tasks included the reworking of Military headquarters, the development of latest barracks, medical services, and coaching facilities. The institution of the Nigerian Military Struggle School and the Nigerian Military Aviation School are testaments to Buratai’s dedication to professionalizing the Military and enhancing operational readiness.
Unrelenting, even out of army service, utilizing Buratai Foundations to ship healthcare companies to humanity throughout Nigeria: The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation in addition to Tukur and Tukur Foundation have delivered and can proceed to ship healthcare companies to the much less privileged all through the nation.
The Foundations owned by Common Buratai (Rtd) has initiated a medical outreach programmes to help affected communities throughout the nation.
The 2 Foundations are respectively anchored by the Chairman, TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, the Chairman,Tukur and Tukur Foundation, Col.Haruna Idris Zaria (Rtd)
As an illustration, the Niger State Authorities, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation and Tukur and Tukur Foundations have pledged to work collaboratively to revive well being and wellness within the flood-affected Mokwa group.
The timeliness of the Foundation’s help throughout this difficult interval is very appreciated. The important function of well timed well being interventions in post-disaster restoration can’t be overemphasized.
