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Buratai to army officers: Democracy must be sustained
Buratai to army officers: Democracy must be sustained
Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has said military officers must see themselves as defenders of the nation’s democracy and custodians of its stability.
“You must remain loyal. Democracy must be sustained and maintained.
“Whatever the challenges, I believe democracy itself will solve them. Loyalty is very key as a military officer even in retirement, we still maintain that loyalty,” Buratai said on Tuesday in Abuja during the decoration of two senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, Col. Ibrahim Bunza and Col. Adetunji Idowu, who were recently elevated to their new ranks.
The former COAS also urged newly promoted Nigerian Army officers to remain loyal, disciplined and committed to the sustenance of democracy in the country.
He reminded the officers that promotion marks the beginning of a new phase of responsibility in their careers and must be matched with hard work, integrity and professionalism.
“I remember vividly when I was promoted to the rank of Colonel. That rank signifies the beginning of a new era.
“If you must get to generalship, it starts now. Your performance, your attitude, your character, and your disposition to duty will determine your next and subsequent ranks,” he said.
Buratai, who served as the 20th Chief of Army Staff between 2015 and 2021 congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing them as disciplined, battle-tested and worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police.
Speaking specifically about Col. Bunza, who served as his Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Buratai recalled his dedication and composure during challenging times, including operational visits to the North East.
“He was my last ADC, and God made it in such a way that I had him. He was very calm, very calculated, and maintained discipline among all the close aides that worked with me.
“He is battle-tested. I remember one of our visits to the North East when we came under fire, but he remained composed throughout,” he added.
The retired general also commended Col. Idowu for his performance as Commander of the 6 Provost Group in Port Harcourt, describing him as “a disciplined and resilient officer who commanded in a very challenging environment and came out with his head high.”
Buratai highlighted the importance of maintaining a stable home, saying the home front was very strategic.
He urged their spouses to ensure that their homes reflect positively on the officer’s performance in the field and in the office by giving them the needed support.
He urged the officers to pursue continuous self-development and professional education, adding that learning must never stop even after promotion or retirement.
“You must continue to improve yourself. Development is very important. Even in retirement, I continue to learn.
“In February, I obtained a certificate in communication and leadership from the University of Cambridge. So don’t stop improving yourselves,” he advised.
Earlier in his remarks, the Provost Marshal (Army), Maj.-Gen. Mathias Erubelu, thanked Buratai for his mentorship and contributions to the Corps, especially the approval for the construction of its present headquarters.
According to him, this edifice we are seated in today was built during your time as Chief of Army Staff.
He congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a product of hard work, diligence and divine favour.
“Promotion comes from God, but not without hard work. There were 298 officers presented for promotion, but only 225 made it.
“So, this is a privilege that comes with responsibility,” the Provost Marshal stated.
Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Col. Bunza expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for finding them worthy of elevation, and to the Provost Marshal for his leadership and mentorship.
“We assure the Nigerian Army of our renewed commitment to service, loyalty, and upholding the core values of the institution.
“We are also grateful to our families, colleagues, and friends for standing by us.”
He also thanked former COAS Buratai for his mentorship, describing him as “a father and a leader whose guidance shaped their careers”.
Temitope Adewale: Heralding New Era of Infrastructure Development in Ifako-Ijaiye
Residents of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area are witnessing a new phase of infrastructural transformation as key transportation projects begin to reshape mobility and economic activity within the constituency. At the heart of this development is the ongoing rehabilitation and resurfacing of Iju Road, alongside the introduction of the Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) along the Iju–Agege-Abule-Egba transport route.
The projects represent a strategic step toward improving road infrastructure, strengthening public transport systems, and enhancing connectivity across several communities within the local government area; this is a total shift from the norm previously known.
For decades, Iju Road has served as one of the most important road networks connecting Iju-Ishaga, Abule-Egba, Agege, Agbado and adjoining communities leading to neighbouring Ogun State. The road plays a crucial role in the daily movement of residents, goods, commercial operators, and commuters traveling to other parts of Lagos.
However, years of heavy usage and increasing population growth placed significant pressure on the road infrastructure, making rehabilitation necessary. The ongoing project focuses on total resurfacing of the entire stretch of the road, strengthening its structure, and improving drainage to ensure long-term durability.
Beyond restoring the road surface, the rehabilitation effort is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall commuting experience for thousands of residents who depend on the route daily.
In addition to the road project is the introduction of the Quality Bus Corridor initiative along the Iju–Abule-Egba axis. The project forms part of Lagos State’s broader effort to modernise urban transportation and improve the efficiency of public transit across the state.
The QBC model is designed to enhance bus operations along major transport routes by upgrading road infrastructure, improving traffic management systems, and providing better facilities for commuters.
Under the initiative, several improvements are expected along the corridor, including upgraded bus stops which are already underway, improved pedestrian walkways, traffic signal optimisation, and enhanced safety measures for road users.
These upgrades are aimed at making bus transportation faster, more reliable, and more comfortable for commuters while also reducing congestion along one of the busiest corridors in the area.
The Iju–Abule-Egba corridor serves as a major transportation link for communities across Ifako-Ijaiye and neighbouring areas. With the introduction of the QBC system and the rehabilitation of Iju Road, residents are expected to benefit from improved connectivity and more efficient access to key commercial and residential districts.
Improved road infrastructure also plays an important role in facilitating economic activities, as easier transportation enables smoother movement of goods and services across communities.
For traders, transport operators, and small business owners, better road conditions translate into reduced vehicle maintenance costs, shorter travel times, and improved productivity which is the desire of all citizens. This project will surely reduce costs of energy spent on travel time, improve lifespan through less traffic, reduce carbon emission and help achieve better health for all.
The ongoing infrastructural improvements in Ifako-Ijaiye have become a reality through the legislative advocacy and productive engagement with relevant government agencies by Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji, OON, member representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Temitope Adewale, who is also the Chairman,House Committee on Transportation has been instrumental in facilitating groundbreaking infrastructural projects to Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 01, all in bid to improve the social outlook and transform the economic landscape of the area.
Through continuous engagement with government authorities and stakeholders, the projects have gained the support required to address longstanding transportation challenges affecting different parts of the constituency, giving residents the joy for free movements at will.
His advocacy has contributed to ensuring that Ifako-Ijaiye remains part of the broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at transforming Lagos into a modern and well-connected megacity.
Infrastructure development remains a key driver of urban growth, and the ongoing projects within Ifako-Ijaiye reflect a broader commitment to building resilient and efficient transport systems across Lagos State.
By combining road rehabilitation with modern public transport initiatives such as the Quality Bus Corridor, the state government is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and integrated transportation network.
For residents of Ifako-Ijaiye, the transformation of Iju Road and the introduction of the QBC initiative represent more than just road construction—they signal progress toward improved mobility, stronger local economies, and a better quality of life.
As work continues along the corridor, many residents remain optimistic that these infrastructural improvements will usher in a new era of development for the local government area.
Deputy Senate President Appoints Odunjo as Senior Legislative Aide
The Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin, has appointed Hon. Odunleye Odunjo as Senior Legislative Aide (SLA), according to a letter dated March 6, 2027.
The letter, addressed to Odunjo, stated that the appointment is “at the pleasure of the Deputy President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Hon. Odunjo, who currently serves as Director General of Ogun State Visionaries for Yayi, previously represented Ado-Odo/Ota Constituency II in the Ogun State House of Assembly for eight years. He also held the position of Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State before voluntarily resigning to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In response to the appointment, Odunjo expressed gratitude to God and thanked his principal, Senator Jibrin, for the opportunity to serve. He also acknowledged the support of Olamilekan Solomon Adeola and Rt. Hon. Tunji Egbetokun, former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly.
Odunjo’s new role as SLA positions him at the center of legislative affairs, assisting in policy formulation and constituency representation at the national level.
Tinubu’s Ambassadorial Picks Raise Questions on Merit, Strategy — Banwo
Dr. Ope Banwo, has questioned the rationale behind Nigeria’s latest ambassadorial appointments, describing the list as reflective of political compensation rather than national strategy.
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In a self-signed statement released from his base on Wednesday, Banwo argued that the composition of the list suggests a pattern where loyalty and political survival appear to outweigh competence and global credibility.
According to him, countries typically deploy their most respected professionals and seasoned diplomats to represent national interests abroad. However, he noted that Nigeria’s approach seems to differ significantly.
“Other nations send their best—economists, scholars, and experienced diplomats. In Nigeria, we often send political loyalists, ideological turncoats, and controversial figures,” he said.
Banwo expressed concern that such appointments could weaken Nigeria’s global standing, stressing that diplomacy requires individuals who command respect in international circles.
He further questioned why diplomatic postings are often treated as rewards for political allegiance rather than strategic tools for advancing national interests.
The public commentator maintained that this pattern may partly explain Nigeria’s limited influence on the global stage, despite its size and economic potential.
Banwo noted that while some appointees may still perform creditably, the overall perception created by the list raises concerns about the country’s priorities.
He emphasized the need for a shift toward merit-based appointments, insisting that Nigeria deserves representatives who embody integrity, competence, and national pride.
“In my view, Nigeria deserves ambassadors who reflect the very best of our intellect and values, not individuals who leave foreign observers questioning our choices,” he added.
Banwo concluded that unless the selection process is reformed, Nigeria risks undermining its diplomatic effectiveness and credibility in international affairs.
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