General Tukur Buratai: The Valiant Sentinel – Shielding the Nation, Inspiring Awe

In the realm of military leadership, certain individuals stand out for their remarkable contributions and unwavering dedication to their country. One such figure is General Tukur Buratai, a distinguished Nigerian military officer who has made significant strides in his career, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history. He is endowed with so many achievements and accomplishments across military and non military sectors in the country, so much so that his works outweigh his predecessors. The mention of the name “Buratai” sends shivers to the hearts of terrorists and warning sounds to enemies of the state who plan to perpetrate evil. Before we take a ride into the numerous achievements of this icon, let us dive into his early life from his formative age.

General Tukur Buratai, who hails from Buratai, Biu Local Government Area, was born on November 24, 1960 in Borno state Nigeria. Borno state is located in the North-East geopolitical zone, and the only state that borders three foreign countries in Nigeria. He attended the Buratai Central Primary School where he obtained his primary education, thereafter he attended the Government Teachers College, Potiskum, in Yobe state for his secondary education. Just as the saying goes, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”, with a deep sense of conviction to serve, he followed after his father’s footstep, who was a non-commissioned officer in the Royal West African Frontier Force, and enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Kaduna, in 1981.

Following the completion of his officer cadet training at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1983 he was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the infantry unit of the Nigerian Army. After his commissioning as a second lieutenant in the Nigerian Army, Buratai grew through the rank and file of his military career. Marked by unwavering commitment to national security, serving in several sensitive positions and in various capacities, he left an excellent and remarkable touch in positions he held in the Army.

Over the years, he underwent various specialised military training courses both locally and internationally, enhancing his tactical prowess and strategic thinking. His military duties cut across various theatres of operation, amongst which are, the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) and the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). He also served as the Brigade Commander in several locations within Nigeria and later rose to become a General Officer Commanding (GOC). Buratai’s leadership skills and dedication to duty were evident in his pivotal role during Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram in the northeastern region of the country.

The peak of his military career came when he was appointed the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army by former president Muhammadu Buhari in July 2015 to January 2021. As the Chief of Army staff, he implemented a strategic and comprehensive approach, combining military operations with civic-military initiatives aimed at winning the hearts and minds in affected communities.

Upon assuming office in July 2015, he faced the arduous task of preventing terrorism and ensuring the protection of Nigerian citizens. His tenure coincided with the rise of Boko Haram insurgency, which had plunged the nation into a state of fear and uncertainty. Yet, armed with an unyielding determination, Buratai spearheaded a transformative campaign to restore peace and stability to the embattled regions.

General Buratai swiftly recognized the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat the insurgency. Under his leadership, the Nigerian Army underwent comprehensive reforms, with emphasis placed on enhancing training, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with international partners. Through Operation Lafiya Dole, he mobilised troops across the frontlines, engaging in fierce battles against Boko Haram insurgents, significantly degrading their capabilities.

In his pursuit of innovation, General Buratai introduced novel initiatives that proved instrumental in bolstering Nigeria’s security architecture. The establishment of the Nigerian Army Special Forces Command was one such strategic move. This elite unit, equipped with advanced training and cutting-edge equipment, emerged as a potent force in counter-insurgency operations, dismantling Boko Haram cells and rescuing countless hostages.

General Buratai recognized the importance of winning hearts and minds in the battle against extremism. The Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) program, implemented during his tenure, sought to foster community engagement, providing humanitarian assistance, and facilitating the return of displaced persons to their homes. By prioritising the welfare of civilians affected by the conflict, Buratai’s approach resonated with the local populace, eroding support for terrorist organisations.

Despite the monumental challenges he faced, General Buratai’s tenure also witnessed significant strides in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. His unwavering commitment to ridding Nigeria of these menaces led to the establishment of Operation Sahel Sanity, a joint task force that has made remarkable progress in curbing the activities of armed groups in the Northwest region.

General Buratai’s exemplary leadership extended beyond the battlefield. As an advocate of professionalism, he placed great emphasis on accountability and discipline within the ranks of the Nigerian Army. This commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to human rights principles earned him recognition and commendation from national and international bodies alike.

While General Buratai’s tenure has undeniably left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security landscape, it is essential to acknowledge that the fight against insurgency and criminality is an ongoing battle. As he hands over the reins to his successor, General Buratai’s achievements serve as a foundation upon which future leaders can build upon. The gains made in his tenure must be consolidated and propelled forward, ensuring that Nigeria’s security forces remain resilient and adaptive to emerging threats.

It is also worthy of note that Buratai, a man for an unending quest of knowledge, bagged several degrees which are; a degree in History from University of Maiduguri, a degree in Philosophy from Bangladesh University of Professionals, Dhaka. He is also a graduate of National Defence College, Mirpur, Bangladesh

Due to his remarkable achievement as the Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army, The then president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, deemed it worthy for him to continue to exemplary leadership in other sectors, and so appointed him the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic in 2021. His participation and contribution towards the success of the All Progressive Congress in the just concluded 2023 presidential election can not be overemphasised as he has been actively committed towards building a greater and stronger Nigeria.