Ndume Hails Buratai’s Leadership, Recalls Army’s Struggles Against Insecurity
Ndume Hails Buratai’s Leadership, Recalls Army’s Struggles Against Insecurity
By Matthew Eloyi
Senator representing Borno South and former Chairman of Senate Committee on Army, Sen. Mohammed Ali Ndume, has commended former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd.), for his leadership of the Nigerian Army during one of the country’s most challenging security periods.
Ndume spoke at the public presentation of Military Transformational Leadership in Action: The Buratai Era, authored by Dr. M.S. Abubakar, where he reflected on the security situation confronting Nigeria before and during Buratai’s tenure.
The senator said Buratai provided leadership to the Army at a difficult time when the country was facing serious security challenges, particularly in the North-East.
Ndume recalled the conditions confronting Nigerians during the period, noting that insecurity had affected movement and social activities in some parts of the country.
He commended Buratai and officers and soldiers under his command for their efforts in confronting the challenges despite difficult circumstances.
According to him, the sacrifices and efforts of military personnel during the period should be recognised as part of Nigeria’s broader struggle to restore security and stability.
Ndume said the experience also demonstrated that security could not be left to the military alone, stressing that traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, the police, judiciary and political leadership all have responsibilities in maintaining peace.
He rejected attempts to portray insecurity as the problem of a particular region or religious group.
“It’s not a Northern problem. It’s not a Muslim problem. It’s not a Christian problem. It is a Nigerian problem,” he said.
Ndume also praised the commitment of Nigerian soldiers who served under difficult conditions and expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome its security and developmental challenges.
He acknowledged measures by the present administration to improve military welfare and funding, including increases in soldiers’ salaries and defence allocations.
The senator said Nigerians must equally recognise their own responsibility for the country’s leadership, arguing that politicians are products of the society and that citizens have a role in determining who occupies political offices.
“Politics is people,” Ndume said, urging citizens to participate actively in the political process.
He said the presentation of the book provided an opportunity not only to celebrate Buratai’s military service but also to reflect on the responsibilities of citizens and institutions in building a more secure and united Nigeria.
Ndume’s remarks added a strong public dimension to the book’s examination of the Buratai era, particularly the former Army chief’s leadership during a period of intense security pressure.
