By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
Former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (retd.), has paid tribute to late President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a disciplined Commander-in-Chief whose political will strengthened the military’s campaign against Boko Haram insurgents.
In a statement marking the first anniversary of Buhari’s passing on Monday, Buratai said the late President’s courage, integrity and confidence in the Armed Forces contributed significantly to the successes recorded against insurgency in the North-East.
Reflecting on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff in July 2015, Buratai said Buhari gave him a clear mandate to degrade Boko Haram and restore Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“He gave me a clear, unambiguous order: degrade Boko Haram and restore territorial integrity to the North-East. He never minced words. He provided the strategic direction and the unwavering political will that empowered the Armed Forces to reclaim our land,” he said.
Buratai said Buhari’s leadership style was defined by discipline, steadfastness and trust in military professionalism.
“Many have debated his policies, but those of us who served under his command experienced the man firsthand. He was a leader of legendary stoicism whose belief in the military never wavered. He allowed us the space to operate, trusting our expertise, yet he held us to the highest standard of accountability,” he said.
He described the fight against insurgency as one of the most challenging periods in Nigeria’s history, adding that the military’s achievements reflected Buhari’s determination and leadership.
Buratai also recalled the confidence Buhari reposed in him, saying the late President’s trust was rooted in shared values and remained a responsibility he carried throughout his tenure.
He further described Buhari as a man of integrity and modesty who served Nigeria with humility, shunned ostentation and returned to his hometown of Daura after leaving office.
According to him, Buhari’s leadership laid enduring foundations for national security and democratic governance.
Buratai extended his condolences to the Buhari family and urged Nigerians to continue to uphold the late President’s legacy of honesty, discipline and selfless service.
“One year is gone, but the memory of his courage and his dedication to the Federal Republic of Nigeria remains unassailable,” he said.
He also prayed for the repose of Buhari’s soul, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
