Connect with us

celebrity radar - gossips

40 Years in the Army: A Lifetime of Service Recount By  Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd.) CFR By Odeyemi Oladimeji 

Published

on

AMBASSADOR (LT. GENERAL RTD) TUKUR BURATAI, WOULD BE AN INVALUABLE ASSET TO THE GOVERNMENT OF PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU. By Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi

 

40 Years in the Army: A Lifetime of Service Recount By  Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd.) CFR

By Odeyemi Oladimeji 

 

Lt. Gen  Tukur Yusufu Buratai is  a former Chief of Army staff and Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin. In this piece, he narrated how he rose through the ranks in Nigerian Army and forty years experience in the Nigerian Army

40 Years in the Army: A Lifetime of Service Recount By  Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd.) CFR
By Odeyemi Oladimeji 

I was appointed as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in 2015 at a time when the sovereignty of the country was threatened by insidious forces within our borders. Throughout my forty years in the Nigerian Army, including those momentous sixty six months as its head, my sole preoccupation had been public service.

 

 

The records of my modest achievements are obvious, some of which had been mentioned earlier in this hall. My commitment to the army and the Nigerian public never wavered from my cadet days to my retirement. I started as a young officer, eager to serve my country and make a difference.

Over the years, I rose through the service, promoted as at when due and took on various roles and responsibilities that allowed me to contribute to the greater good of the service and the nation. As I gained experience and expertise, I was entrusted with leadership positions.

These opportunities allowed me to contribute to shaping the direction of the Nigerian Army and implement strategies that enhanced its efficiency and effectiveness.

My tenure as Chief of Army Staff was particularly significant, as it provided a platform to influence policy and ensure the army’s readiness to face all security challenges that arose. Some of my obvious key achievements include preservation of democracy, improved professionalism of the Nigerian Army and maintaining our nation’s unity.

During my tenure as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), I focused on modernizing the Nigerian army’s capabilities and adapting to the ever-evolving nature of warfare. I spearheaded initiatives to enhance training programmes, improve equipment, and promote innovation within the ranks. These efforts not only bolstered the Army’s operational readiness but also ensured the safety and security of our nation.

An officer of the Nigerian armed forces is guided by both the Constitution and the Armed Forces Act CAP A20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria which forms the major part of military laws in Nigeria. This is referred to as Doctrine of Compact’, which simply means that a military personnel is subject to two laws. That is Civil Law and Military Law.

While in service, I made sure that my decisions, as well as the actions I took were guided by this doctrine. I prioritized fostering strong relationships with international allies, recognizing the importance of collaboration in addressing global security concerns. Through joint exercises and partnerships, strengthened our collective defense capabilities and promoted counter terrorism efforts regionally and globally. Through the instrumentality of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) we coordinated and fought the war against Boko Haram and Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP). Through the Community of Sahel-Saharan State (CENSAD) and the Islamic Coalition against Terrorism we contributed significantly to the global war against terrorism.

 

 

 

 

 

In retirement my dedication to public service remains as strong. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and the experiences that have shaped my character. Moving forward, I will continue to contribute to society, leveraging the skills and values instilled in me during my military career.

My four decades in the army, including my tenure as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has been marked by a deep commitment to serving the public through a focus on modernization, collaboration, and unwavering dedication. I endeavored to make a positive impact on the army and the nation as a The verdict is out, and I am fulfilled to have played a role in safeguarding our country’s security and well-being

Lt. Gen  Tukur Yusufu Buratai is  a former Chief of Army staff and Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin

 

 

celebrity radar - gossips

Another Feather for Nollywood Icon Fidelis Duker

Published

on

**Another Feather for Nollywood Icon Fidelis Duker

 

*Lagos, Nigeria* — In a remarkable celebration of artistic achievement, renowned Nollywood figure Fidelis Duker received yet another prestigious accolade last weekend, solidifying his role as a key player in the growth of the Nigerian and African film industries. The award was presented in a ceremony held at Duker’s Lagos office by esteemed film and theatre director, Mr. Alex Eyengho, founder of the Warri International Film Festival, alongside Marketing and Strategy Director, Mrs. Matel Eyengho.

The recent recognition builds upon Duker’s previous achievement at last year’s ECOFEST in Dakar, where he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This latest accolade is a testament to his unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the cinematic landscape.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” Duker expressed during the event. In his speech, Alex Eyengho lauded Duker’s pioneering efforts in establishing significant film festivals in Nigeria, particularly the Abuja International Film Festival, which has played a vital role in promoting local talent and storytelling.

Eyengho emphasized, “Fidelis has not only paved the way for emerging filmmakers but has also helped elevate Nigerian cinema on the global stage. His creative vision and commitment inspire all of us in the industry.”

As Duker reflects on this honor, he acknowledges the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. “This acknowledgment reaffirms to my team and me that our work is being observed, and it motivates us to continue contributing to the development of our sector,” he stated.

With numerous projects on the horizon, Duker remains a relentless advocate for the growth and recognition of African cinema. His latest recognition is yet another testament to the vibrant and evolving landscape of Nollywood, as industry leaders like him continue to inspire future generations.

As the film industry anticipates the next phase of development, Duker’s continued influence signals a promising future for filmmakers in Nigeria and across the continent.

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

E‑Money’s Grand Gesture: A Closer Look at the SUV Gift to Chinedu “Aki” Ikedieze

Published

on

E‑Money’s Grand Gesture: A Closer Look at the SUV Gift to Chinedu “Aki” Ikedieze

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG

 

“Public Generosity, Celebrity Loyalty and the Symbolism of Wealth in Nigeria’s Entertainment Elite.”

 

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Nigerian billionaire and entrepreneur Emeka Okonkwo, widely known as E‑Money, once again captured national attention with a lavish and highly publicised act of generosity, gifting a brand‑new 2024/2025 Ford SUV to veteran Nollywood actor Chinedu Ikedieze, affectionately called Aki, during his high‑profile birthday celebration.

 

The event, held in Lagos amidst a constellation of entertainers, business figures and socialites, was itself part of an annual tradition in which E‑Money marks his birthday (on February 18) with large‑scale giveaways and spectacular shows of material philanthropy. This year, he announced the gift of over 30 cars to friends, staff and family, a gesture that quickly went viral as videos and images circulated across social media platforms.

 

In the case of Ikedieze, E‑Money’s gift appeared to be deeply personal. During the festivities, E‑Money stood beside his elder brother, Grammy‑nominated musician KCee and recounted how Ikedieze stood by him at his 2007 wedding. The billionaire explained that the SUV was a “token of appreciation” for the enduring support the actor had shown over the years which is a narrative that blends friendship with public celebration.

 

Ikedieze, a Nollywood staple with a career spanning more than two decades and over 150 film credits, including the iconic Aki na Ukwa franchise, visibly reacted with humble surprise as he received the vehicle, bowing his head in respect and gratitude. The actor later shared the moment on his Instagram account with a caption celebrating the gift, further fuelling online engagement around the event.

 

Beyond the spectacle, this incident underscores evolving dynamics in Nigerian celebrity culture and the intersection of wealth, influence and reciprocity. Sociologist Dr. Chinedum Uche of the University of Lagos, speaking on the broader implications of such high‑profile gifts, notes: “Philanthropy that is highly publicised can reinforce social bonds, but it also reflects a culture where generosity is intertwined with reputation economy; where giving becomes as much a social signal as it is an act of kindness.” The quote highlights how public acts of wealth transfer among elites serve layered social functions that extend beyond pure altruism.

 

Critics of such displays argue that ostentatious giveaways, particularly in a country with stark economic disparities, risk amplifying social envy and exacerbating perceptions of inequality. Economist Dr. Ifunanya Nwosu from the Lagos Business School observes: “In societies marked by economic stratification, celebrity largesse may inspire admiration, but it can also inadvertently highlight structural inequities; prompting questions about systemic investment in public welfare versus individual generosity.”

 

Still, supporters maintain that E‑Money’s annual tradition (which has in past years included cash gifts to his brother KCee, comedians and even domestic staff) reflects genuine gratitude and a commitment to uplifting his immediate circle, albeit within the private sphere.

 

For Ikedieze, the SUV stands both as a heartfelt gesture from a longtime friend and a public affirmation of their enduring relationship. As the video of the moment continues to circulate, the broader narrative has ignited discussions about the role of private wealth in public life, celebrity culture and how acts of giving are interpreted in contemporary Nigerian society.

 

In a landscape where influence and generosity often play out in equal measure on public stages, E‑Money’s gift to Aki is more than a headline, it is a flashpoint in ongoing debates about wealth, friendship and visibility in Nigeria’s entertainment and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

Spiritual Reality: Wicked People Are Possessed by Wicked Spirits — Dr. Christian Okafor

Published

on

Spiritual Reality: Wicked People Are
Possessed by Wicked Spirits — Dr. Christian Okafor

…..“You don’t need to offend them before they attack you.”

…..“Your only true help comes from God.”

 

Demons are strategic and calculating. They detect threats quickly and position themselves to resist any power that may expose or overpower them.

According to the Generational Prophet and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christian Okafor, spiritual intelligence operates both in light and in darkness—and believers must understand this reality.

Dr. Okafor delivered this message on Thursday, February 19, 2026, during the midweek Prophetic, Healing, Deliverance and Solutions Service (PHDS) held at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.
The Operations of Demons

 

Teaching on the subject “Spiritual Reality” with the subtitle “Operations of Demons,” the Man of God explained that when demons possess individuals, their behavior changes. Such people may attack, bully, or resist those sent by God to help them, unknowingly rejecting divine assistance and prolonging their struggles.

“You don’t need to offend a demon before it attacks you,” he said. “What you carry is enough to provoke opposition. The greater your potential, the greater the battle.”

Dr. Okafor noted that many believers misinterpret battles as signs that God has abandoned them. However, he explained that some battles are permitted for growth, training, and divine glorification.

According to him, God may allow certain confrontations so that believers understand spiritual warfare and emerge stronger.

“Some battles are necessary,” he emphasized. “They push you into your turning point.”
He further stated that God does not respond to lies, blackmail, or bullying. He responds to His Word. Therefore, opposition is not proof of God’s absence, but often evidence of destiny at work.

The Weapon Against Demonic Attacks

Addressing solutions, Dr. Okafor described prayer as the strongest weapon against satanic operations.
“Prayer is the license that invites God into your battles,” he declared. “God does not intrude—He responds to invitation.”

According to the Apostle of Altars, understanding the principles and discipline of prayer enables believers to receive divine strategies for overcoming demonic resistance. Without prayer, he warned, spiritual help cannot be activated.
“You cannot receive help without God,” he concluded. “And you cannot engage God without prayer.”

Manifestations at the Service
The midweek gathering was marked by a strong move of the Spirit, with testimonies of deliverance, miracles, restoration, and solutions to various challenges presented before God. Several individuals reportedly committed their lives to Christ during the service.

 

Spiritual Reality: Wicked People Are
Possessed by Wicked Spirits — Dr. Christian Okafor

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending