Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has described late President Muhammadu Buhari as a resolute leader who was deeply committed to defeating Boko Haram and restoring security in Nigeria.
Buratai, who was appointed Army Chief by Buhari in 2015, said the late president never minced words in his directives to degrade the terrorist group, and always stood firm on achieving results in the war against insurgency.
Speaking in an interview in Katsina on Tuesday, Buratai said:
“President Buhari was a commander-in-chief who was clear about his mission to defeat Boko Haram. He gave firm instructions and trusted me to execute them effectively.”
Buratai, who later served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, noted that Buhari was a result-oriented leader who made security a top priority despite the complex challenges in the Northeast.
“He even foresaw, based on intelligence reports, that the Northwest would become another epicenter of insecurity after the Northeast. He acted swiftly and provided guidance on how to tackle it,” he said.
The retired general spoke from Katsina, the late president’s home state, as he joined top government officials awaiting the arrival of Buhari’s remains for final burial in Daura.
“We thank God for his life. He has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us, especially in the military, where he served with honour and commitment,” Buratai added.
