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General Buratai Urges Dangote Not To Succumb To Marketers Blackmail, Reveals Why

Former Chief of Army Staff and erstwhile envoy of Nigeria to the Republic of Benin, Lt. General TY Buratai Rtd (CFR) has lent his voice to the lingering issues between Dangote Refinery and petroleum marketers in Nigeria. The decorated General urged Dangote, not to succumb to the marketers blackmail.

In an exclusive chat with some journalists on his opinion over the imbroglio between the two gladiators, he raised a fundamental question as regards who is blackmailing Dangote?

According to Buratai, Dangote refinery can not operate outside the global oil system. Just because it refines locally and gets its crude in Naira is not a reason to sell it cheaper. He stated that the government must susidise because it is making a profit. However, the question of subsidy is very sensitive now. But when subsidy is reintroduced, it should be only for locally refined products. At the same time, our borders must be closed for all smugglers, especially in petroleum products.

“Our borders are porous, and high-level smuggling is witnessed in every sphere. Dangote must find markets elsewhere to be able to maintain its operations. It is good news that Ghana and other African countries are approaching Dangote to buy his products.

“If Dangote refinery sells its product cheaper, be rest assured the products will be massively smuggled. The petroleum marketers are not sincere. They want cheap Dangote products to be able to smuggle them outside our shores. In this case, both Nigerians and Dangote will be the losers.”

Continuing, Buratai believed that “Unless all our borders are properly manned and all the smuggling routes are blocked, then the government subsidy will work for our benefits”

“Dangote should not succumb to the marketers’ blackmail”, he concluded.

It would be recalled that the row between Dangote Refinery and petroleum marketers in Nigeria has taken a new dimension following the comment by the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote that petroleum marketers were not approaching his refinery for purchase of petroleum products.

There has been an uneasy calm since the roll-out of premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, from the Dangote Refinery in September. Their were discordant tunes between the management and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other petroleum marketers.

Dangote refinery has disclosed the price of its petrol, revealing that it sells petrol at N960 per litre for ships and maintains a price of N990 per litre for trucks.

The statement follows claims from the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) that they can import fuel at cheaper rates than Dangote’s.

In an earlier interview, the marketers alleged they were buying fuel more affordably from abroad and called on Dangote Refinery to collaborate with stakeholders.

In response, the refinery argued that only substandard products could be obtained at prices lower than its own.

Gambian First Lady, Fatoumata Bah-Barrow Hails Buratai’s Agricultural, Self-Sufficiency Initiative

First Lady of The Gambia, Mrs. Fatoumata Bah-Barrow has praised former Nigerian Chief of Army Staff and former Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, for his dedication to food production and self-sufficiency. During her visit to Buratai’s Tukur and Tukur farms on Sunday, Mrs. Bah-Barrow commended his innovative approach, showcasing livestock, dairy, and agriculture. “What I witnessed today embodies determination and commitment. Initially, I perceived the general as solely focused on military affairs, but today, I see a general of all mankind,” she stated. His integrated farm demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of sustainable living, and his active engagement in empowering communities is truly inspiring, ” she adds. Mrs. Bah-Barrow envisioned a future where similar initiatives are implemented across Africa, significantly reducing hunger and promoting unity. She proposed The Gambia as a pilot project, leveraging its small size and population to showcase the potential for self-sustaining practices. The First Lady extended an invitation to Buratai to share his expertise through a lecture, focusing on practical applications, particularly in army camps. On his part, the host, Ambassador Buratai who holds the traditional title of the Betara of Biu and the Garkuwan Keffi, recalled that the project started when he was a younger officer in the rank of Major and has remained focused and committed to this course throughout his career in the military. Recall that, during his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, General Buratai established the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches, which has evolved into a major agricultural hub contributing immensely to Nigeria’s GDP. His commitment to agriculture has continued to demonstrate how retired individuals can continue to contribute positively to society. By embracing innovative approaches to food security and leadership, individuals like Buratai and Bah-Barrow are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa. Highpoint of the visit was a facility tour of all the farm’s components, including snakes, poultry, green house, as well as production lines of bakery, water, and the famous Arwasky yogurt. Mrs Bah-Barrow was accompanied on the visit by, he Deputy Head of Mission Abdoulie Hydara, Anna Jobe her Deputy Permanent Secretary, and Mr Babucarr Dubumya, First Secretary at the Gambian High Commission.

General Buratai Applauds Supreme Court’s Ruling On LG Autonomy, Says its Transformational and A Radical Change

….Commends the Federal Government’s bold initiative.

-The Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda is truly manifesting positively for the good of democracy and for the common man.

The former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.) has hailed the judgement delivered by the Supreme Court granting financial autonomy to local governments.

In his official statement, Buratai, who also served as Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, appraised the verdict labelling it transformational and a radical change that will redirect the fortunes of the local governments in the country. He also commended the federal government for the bold initiative at the Supreme Court and applauded the judges too for upholding justice during delivery.

He said, “this is transformational and radical change that will redirect the fortunes of the local governments in the country. I commend the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for instituting the case in the SC and also commend the SC for this landmark judgement”. Buratai further said that “the Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda is truly manifesting positively for the good of democracy and for the common man.

Furthermore, he highlighted some of the cardinal points of the judgement of the Supreme Court Judges which are allocations are to be paid directly to Local Government Councils immediately, appointment of Caretaker committees is illegal and unconstitutional, and that no governor has any powers to appoint any CTC amongst others.

According to him, “the Supreme Court’s ruling is a significant victory for local government autonomy. It has set a precedent for future cases involving local government autonomy and financial independence. Also, the ruling will have far-reaching implications for the country’s political landscape, as local governments gain greater control over their finances and Local Government Councils will now be able to deliver services more effectively to their communities, without interference from state governors. Aside from that, it will have a positive impact on grassroots development, including grassroots security.

It would be recalled that the Supreme Court declared on Thursday that it is unconstitutional for state governors to hold funds allocated for local government administrations.

The seven-man panel, in the judgement delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, declared that the 774 local government councils in the country should manage their funds themselves.

The apex court held that the power of the government is portioned into three arms of government, the federal, the state and the local government.

The court further declared that a state government has no power to elect a caretaker committee and a local government council is only recognisable with a democratically elected government.

TBRC LEADERSHIP RETREAT FOCUSES ON TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND SECURITY CHALLENGES IN NIGERIA.

-Emir of Zazzau Call For Collaboration to Address Nigeria’s Insecurity Crisis

-Ameer of Birnin Gwari Commends General Buratai’s Army Modernization Efforts

In a seminar organized by the Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC), Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd) emphasized the crucial role of traditional leaders in contributing to the security of Nigeria. Recognizing that traditional leaders have the eyes and ears of the people, Gen Buratai highlighted the importance of information and intelligence in addressing security challenges. He stressed the need for traditional leaders to support the government’s security architecture and ensure the safety of the country.

The seminar, which was held as part of the ongoing TBRC leadership retreat, focused on the theme of traditional institutions and contemporary security challenges in Nigeria. Gen Buratai underscored the significance of collective efforts in mitigating security threats, emphasizing that security is essential for societal development. Without security, progress and growth would be significantly hindered.

The retreat aimed to build closer ties and cooperation among traditional leaders to foster unity and address security concerns collectively. Gen Buratai expressed confidence in the traditional leaders’ ability to fulfill their role in promoting peace and security in Nigeria.

During the seminar, His Royal Highness the Emir of Zazzau, H.E Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, emphasized the prevalent issue of insecurity in Nigeria. He called on traditional rulers to prioritize the preservation and promotion of traditional institutions, as well as to act with fairness, transparency, and integrity. Emphasizing the need for collaboration with various stakeholders, including government bodies and the private sector, the Emir highlighted the importance of peace, stability and security in achieving political and economic development.

The Ameer of Birnin Gwari, HRH Zubair Jibril Maigwari II, commended the transformational journey of the Nigerian Army under the leadership of General Buratai in Dr. Jibril’s book, which provides a detailed analysis of the Nigerian Army’s advancements during General Buratai’s tenure, was officially presented during the seminar. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and military enthusiasts interested in understanding the evolution of one of Africa’s prominent armed forces.

In conclusion, the retreat and seminar emphasized the indispensable role of traditional leadership in promoting peace, stability, Security and national unity in Nigeria. Traditional leaders were acknowledged as essential bridges between the country’s cultural heritage and its aspirations for a secure and prosperous future. Their wisdom and cultural knowledge are crucial in mobilizing communities and promoting peaceful coexistence. Furthermore, traditional leaders contribute significantly to preserving Nigeria’s cultural identity and fostering social cohesion. The seminar urged the support and collaboration of all stakeholders to create a safe and thriving Nigeria for all its citizens.

The Tukur Buratai Research Centre and the ongoing leadership retreat highlighted the importance of traditional institutions, security challenges, and the modernization efforts of the Nigerian Army. As Nigeria continues to face complex threats and challenges, it is essential to utilize the wisdom and influence of traditional leaders to promote peace, stability and Security throughout the nation.

THE LEGEND OF BURATAI 2: A Review by Hannatu Lot Dickson

The Legend of Buratai Volume 2 is authored by General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, the former Chief of Staff of the Nigerian Army. The book was Published by Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd. Cover design by Mereo Books. It was published October 13, 2021 in English Language. It has 125 pages with ISBN-10: * 186151915X and ISBN-13: * 978-1861519153.

The author Tukur Yusuf Buratai CFR psc(+) NAM GSS ndc (BD) was born 24 November 1960. He is a retired Nigerian army lieutenant general, former Chief of Army Staff appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2015, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 1983 and has had multiple command, administrative, and instructional appointments.

The Legend of Buratai 2 is a novel base on true-life story of General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, the former Chief of Army Staff. It is a novel of eight (8) chapters and has one hundred and twenty-five (125) pages. Each of these chapters and pages is so richly engaging and informative from start to finish.
Just a recap of the plot summary, the book is the enthralling true-life story in his own words, General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, the Chief of Staff of the Nigerian Army, who rose to legendary status by dint of hard work, bravery, diligence, excellence and honesty. His journey through life is presented as an exemplary story for all who would aspire to follow his path. His childhood and formative years were also captured.

The preliminary pages of “The Legend of Buratai 2” begins with the titled page where the titled of the book was boldly written and the author’s name. Then followed by the cover page design which contains the cover photo which was taken in Ngamdu. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Yusufu Buratai is clearly seen in the picture with troops during operations against Boko Haram terrorists at the Nigerian Army Special Super Camp Ngamdu, Borno State in April 2020. He was practically leading the combat operations. Them followed by the content page which outlines the book’s structure, listing chapters, which helps readers navigate the book’s organization and content.

The Photographic Acknowledgement section credits the sources of photographs used in the book, acknowledging photographs taken from the personal album of the author. Followed by a heartfelt message dedicating the book to all young people in Nigeria, and especially those of the Nigerian Military School and the Nigerian Defence Academy.

The Publisher’s Note and acknowledgement pages expressed gratitude while the Forward was written by Major General Paul Tarfa mni (Rtd), who described General Buratai’s records of service as Chief of Staff of Nigerian Army as legendary and cannot be surpassed. ‘He is a General who inspires his subjects by leading from the front’. He further, provided context, endorsement, and insights into the book’s significance.

The author begins chapter one by talking about the beginning which captures the lineage, nuclear family and the journey of Yusufu Buratai especially when he joined the RWAFF. Chapter four depict the miraculous escape from the pond as a child, Dr. Gidado Kumo and John Atanda spoke in chapter three and four, while chapter five and six described the author’s encounters with Snakes and Ghost respectively. chapter seven followed with matters bordering on patriotisms and chapter eight list several principles guiding Lt. General TY Buratai, a few out of those principles are: Do not bother about what people say,; Commit to improving yourself to the extent that you do not have time to compete or criticize others; Let excellence be your trademark anywhere you find yourself; Do not be too proud to retrace your steps back to the right path; Listen more and say less; Always lead with courage or not at all; Honour your words as your bond and never make a promise you can’t keep…
The plot is set in Buratai town, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State to Potiskum, Yobe State. The genre is non-fiction.

The book, ‘The Legend of Buratai 2’ is the best pick for young minds in need of inspiration and mentorship. It is a captivating and fascinating masterpiece, rich in original history, military tactics, strategies and important life lessons with a touch of spirituality straight from the mind and experiences of true and pragmatic General TY Buratai.

The Legend of Buratai 2 has the potentials to recoup reinvigorate patriotism to our fatherland Nigeria. It also has the capability and potentials to make a young mind dream and do everything in their powers to live their dreams just like Lt. General TY Buratai.

The book is so real, it’s not a conventional love story with a perfectly Happy-Ever-After. It was infused with strong themes, I love how Lt Gen. TY Buratai recollected his childhood and formative years, how he was educating us on how to be patriotic and how he described ‘the wretched rustic life of a terrorist’ infused in a poem titled, ‘ARE YOU A TERRORIST?’
The themes in “The Legend of Buratai: Volume 2” include

– Hard work: General Tukur Yusuf Buratai’s rise to legendary status is attributed to his diligence and hard work.

– Bravery: General Buratai is known for his bravery and military tactics.
– Excellence: General Buratai’s journey to excellence is presented as an exemplary story for all who would aspire to follow his path.

– Honesty: General Buratai’s honesty is one of the key characteristics that contributed to his legendary status.

– Patriotism: The book is capable of reawakening patriotism to one’s fatherland, according to Moses A. Uyang, author and humanitarian.

– Diligence: Buratai’s diligence is another factor that contributed to his success.

The book is practically a handbook or a catalyst for youngsters who dear to dream, who wants to love and serve their country whole heartedly, be patriotic and serve humanity in all earnest and honesty.

The book offers a wide range of literary appreciation and acceptance, historical sources, and educative values. It is a foundation for historical and otherwise critical evaluation.

Buratai Reiterates Support For President Tinubu’s Position Against Foreign Military Bases

Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has pitched for Nigeria’s strategic autonomy and counselled the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu-led federal government not to allow any foreign military forces in its sovereign territory.

Buratai’s position came against the backdrop of recent allegations by some Northern leaders that the US and French governments had been lobbying Nigeria to sign new defence pacts, clearing the way to redeploy their expelled military forces from the Sahel.

“Nigeria should not allow any foreign force on its soil. I commend the federal government for its stand against the reported planned redeployment of the US Forces that are being withdrawn from the Niger Republic to Nigeria,” the soldier-diplomat, who was also Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, exclusively told THISDAY.

He added that, “The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation made it very clear that Nigeria had no plan to harbour US troops on our soil.”

In a recent letter to President Tinubu, a crop of northern leaders warned that the presence of foreign military bases would worsen already strained relations between Nigeria and Niger Republic as well as neighbouring Francophone countries and asked the president to prioritise the nation’s security over “short-term strategic alignments,”

In an interview with a national television last Tuesday, David Greene, US chargé d’affaires in Nigeria, refuted the reports.

“I am not aware of any such conversation, and I am not really sure whose purpose it serves to agitate on this point,” he said.

But Buratai holds that given Nigeria’s continental and regional clout, strategic autonomy remained the best doctrine from which to manage an increasingly disruptive international geopolitical theatre.

To buttress his position, the former Chief of Army Staff recalled that in 2014 and 2015, the Nigerian government asserted its sovereign autonomy and declined the deployment of UN or AU international peacekeeping force to fight Boko Haram.

“The Nigerian government rejected the deployment of a UN or AU international peacekeeping force to fight Boko Haram in 2014 and 2015.

“The birth of the new MNJTF with its HQ in Ndjamena was the solution to a foreign force deployment that could have placed these foreign forces as inter-position force between the Boko Haram territory and the Nigerian territory.

“The implication of this is that it could have given territorial legitimacy to the insurgents.

“Similarly, as COAS, I had to quickly recover Gamboru-Ngala from the insurgents in order to prevent the deployment of the Chadian Forces on the Nigerian soil. The MNJTF Concept of Operation was to have 3 Sectors.

“Sector 1 deployed in Cameroon’s Far North Region, comprising all Cameroonian troops. Sector 2 was to be deployed in Ngamboru-Ngala on Nigerian territory, comprising all Chadian troops. Sector 3 was to remain in Baga in Northern Borno State, comprising all Nigerian troops.

“Having denied the Chadian forces deployment on Nigerian soil, Sector 2 was then deployed in Baga Sola in the Lac Region of Chad.

SIX MORE BOKO HARAM TERRORISTS SURRENDER AMID MNJTF’S LAKE CHAD BASIN OPERATIONS

As the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) progresses with Operation Lake Sanity 2, Boko Haram hideouts in the Lake Chad Region, spanning Cameroon and Nigeria, are seeing an increase in surrenders. Recently, 6 additional terrorists have surrender, laying down their arms from 17 to 27 April 2024.

On 17 April 2024, a 19-year-old Boko Haram terrorist named Alhaji Ali surrendered to troops of 403 Amphibious Brigade (Baga) of Sector 3 in Monguno, Nigeria. Initial investigations reveal a 3-year affiliation with Boko Haram’s Buduma faction. Ali, hailing from Masarram on Lake Chad Island and residing at Duguri, highlighted the growing discontentment within the group.

Furthermore, on 25 April 2024, 2 more terrorists, Haoudou Sedik, 37, and Kadja Ousman, 21, turned themselves in at Blangua, Cameroon, to troops of Sector 1 in the Darak area of southern Lake Chad. Investigations reveal their origins from Chad, residing in the localities of Kami-Wari and Kourea, respectively.

The surrenders continued on 26 April, when Mohammed Abdulraman, 38, his wife Sadiya, and their two children (aged 13 and an infant), bearing one 36 Hand Grenade, surrendered to Sector 3’s 403 Amphibious Brigade at the Kwatam Turare axis, Baga, Nigeria. Abdulraman, identified as a foot soldier since 2017 in Sharama, cited internal crisis and the influence of MNJTF’s Operation Nashrul Salam as reasons for their defection.

Likewise, on 27 April 2024, Yusuf Umaru, a 25-year-old, surrendered to the troops of 19 Brigade, Sector 3, in Kekeno, within the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. During the initial investigation, Umaru revealed that he had been abducted by Boko Haram militants along the Monguno-Maiduguri road in 2020. He stated that during his captivity, he was forced to work as a storeroom keeper in one of the terrorist group’s camps located on the islands of Lake Chad.

The MNJTF calls upon other Boko Haram terrorists hiding in the Lake Chad islands and adjoining communities to cease hostilities and embrace peace. We reiterate our commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability to the Lake Chad Basin, encouraging terrorists to follow the path of those who have already surrendered.

ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI
Lieutenant Colonel
Chief Military Public Information Officer
29 April 2024

BRIGADIER GENERAL ABDULLAHI ASSUMES COMMAND AS THE COMMANDANT DEPOT NIGERIAN ARMY

Brigadier General Mohammed Aminu Abdullahi has Tuesday 11 July 2023 assumed command as the 38th Commandant Depot Nigerian Army Zaria Kaduna state.

in his valedictory remarks the outgone Commandant Major General Peter Malla thanked officers and soldiers of Depot NA for their support in his ten months tenure as the commandant. He therefore urged them to extend same gesture to his successor. .

He said that during his tour of duty, deliberate efforts were made to drive the administrative, training and logistics activities of Depot Nigerian Army, in the direction that conform to the contemporary and anticipated future threats bedeviling the nation.

He said the rejigging of the training activities was aimed at ensuring that the young able-bodied Nigerians being chunked out of Depot Nigerian Army were well trained in accordance with the reality of the contemporary operating environment of the Nigerian Army so as to enhance their readiness to confront the odious tasks that awaits them in the field. He thanked the COAS, Taoreed Lagbaja for all the support he has rendered to Depot NA during his tenure as the Commandant.

In his remarks, the incoming Commandant commended the Maj Gen Mala for his laudable achievement of ensuring mission specific training while pledging to consolidate on the achievement of his predecessor in line with the COAS command Philosophy which is to “Transform the Nigerian Army into a well- trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

He therefore appreciated the COAS for giving him the opportunity to serve in his capacity while urging officers and men of the oldest NA institution to cooperate and support him for successful training of the fighting machines of the NA.

Highlight of the event was the symbolic signing of handing and taking over notes, presentation of Depot lag NA Flag to the incoming Commandant and decorations of Depot NA insignia.
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NDA Prize Giving/Beating of Retreat: Mogadishu Battalion emerge overall champions with 9 trophies.

As part of activities schedule for the Passing Out Parade of Cadets of the Nigeria Defence Academy of 69 Regular Course, on Thursdays 6th October 2022, the Academy held its prize giving day and beating of retreat on Friday 30th September 2022.

The exercise signifies the culmination of the training period for cadets, while the award ceremony is an opportunity to reward hardwork by individual cadets who have excelled in military training.

The Mogadishu Battalion emerged the overall winners with 9 trophies which include , Shooting Competition, Drill Competition, Ex Camp Highland, Table Tennis, Badminton, Boxing , Judo, Cross Country Event and Volley Ball at the prize giving ceremony and received the trophy from the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal IO Amao, who was the special guest of honour.

The event which held at the Afaka Parade Ground, NDA attracted dignitaries, including the Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal IO Amao, Principal Staff Officers of the Defence and Svc Hqtrs, Corps Commanders, General Officer Commanding and Air Officer Commanding, Director Generals and Commandants of Various Svc Institutions and host of others

20 sparkling trophies for the 69 Regular Course presented in recognition of their hard work and dedication.

Other battalions that participated in the beating of retreat were Abyssinia Battalion winner in 4 competition Exercise Camp Initial, Exercise Camp Farauta, Athletics event, and Basketball competition, Burma Batalion winner of 2 in Obstacle crossing and Interior Economy, Dallet Battalion winners of 5 which include , SitUp & Beam Heaving Event, Swimming, Football, Handball, Tug of War Event.

Awards were also presented to cadets who distinguished themselves in various sporting activities for male and female categories .

Gutter Journalism: Sahara Reporters to pay N10bn for lying against Buratai

By Halima Abdulkadiri

Sahara Reporters is set to pay N10bn for lying against Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (retired) who has filed a suit against the online newspaper over a report linking him to a N1.85 billion recovered loot.

In the suit with number FCT/HC/CV/252/2022 filed by his lawyer, Dr Reuben Atabo (SAN), Buratai asked the FCT High Court to declare the Sahara Reporters’ publication captioned, “Exclusive: Anti-graft agency, ICPC uncovers billions in cash meant for arms, ammunition to fight Boko Haram in Abuja home of ex-Chief of Army Staff, Buratai” of June 23, 2022 as pure defamation of character. The ex-COAS wants the court to award him the sum of N10 billion in general and aggravated damages over the use of libellous words in the publication of the online platform.

He further demanded an order of the court compelling the newspaper to publish a retraction and an apology in two national dailies and its online platform “where the defamatory publication was made.”

Buratai, who was appointed Nigeria’s ambassador to the Benin Republic after he retired from the army, averred that the publication damaged his reputation after he diligently served Nigeria in various capacities and was awarded various meritorious honours for his distinguished service. No date has been fixed for the hearing.