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Buratai: We must use culture to promote national security, unity

Published

2 years ago

February 18, 2024

Buratai: We must use culture to promote national security, unity

Retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, former Chief of Army Staff and Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, has advocated the use of culture and tradition to promote national security and national unity.

Buratai made the call on Saturday in Abuja at the Army Headquarters, Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA), to mark the successful end of 2023 and usher in 2024 activities.

He said that the Nigerian army was one of the first national institutions to be created by the colonial masters, adding that they recognised the richness and the cultural diversity of the soldiers that came from diverse tribes across the country.

This, according to him, informed their decision to institute army festival called WASA, as a celebration of the richness and cultural diversity of the people.

He said that there was hardly any institution in Nigeria where people’s cultures and traditions were well represented than in the Nigerian military which had given a special connection to the celebration of WASA by the Nigerian Army.

“The reputation and celebration of our cultural diversity and its richness by the Nigerian military has allowed the institution to stand tall over the years and to succeed at promoting the unity and corporate existence of our dear countries.

“As we celebrate the Nigerian army’s achievement over the past one year in 2023, we are also not unmindful of the social, economic and security challenges in the country.

“As the Nigerian army strives to tackle insecurity in the country using both kinetic and non-kinetic measures, we must use culture and tradition to promote national security and national unity.

“No Nigerian culture accepts banditry, kidnapping or terrorism.

“We must appeal to our youth to imbibe the culture of hard work, respect for elders and adherence to peaceful communal living.

“Our cultural heritage of farming, fishing, art and craft must be encouraged in our societies in order for the unemployed to be useful to us so that they can shun criminal acts,” he said.

The former army chief said the Nigerian army had been a source of pride to the nation and had recorded well documented victories from participation in the 1st and 2nd World Wars.

“Our soldiers have also excelled in various peacekeeping operations across the globe.

“The involvement of the army in internal security operations has also recorded commendable success,” he said.

These achievements, according to him, represent a testimony to the dedication and sacrifices of the military personnel, some of whom had paid the supreme price in service to the nation.

“We owe to all of you a debt of gratitude for your sacrifices to the country.

“As members of the Armed Forces, you owe your loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

“President Bola Tinubu has been attentive and supportive to the demand for improved well-being of servicemen and their families, and we are deeply grateful to him for his support.

“Therefore, what is demanded of you is to continue to do your best to uphold your military tenets and I also implore you to continue to be alive to your constitutional responsibilities,” he added.

Buratai commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his professional leadership of the Nigerian army, saying that he had maintained a very high standard of discipline.

He has also maintained operational efficiency and administrative consistency in handling the welfare of the troops and their families, Buratai added.

He said the Nigerian army had played more roles in aid to civil authority at any time in the history of the nation with numerous achievements in its effort to keep the country safe.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the WASA featured the maiden inter-agency tug of war competition which was won by the Nigeria army, with the Nigeria Police coming second and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), third.

The activities climaxed with the lighting of the camp fire by the former COAS and others that included the former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Gen. Abayomi Olonisakin.

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Apostle Omotosho Marks 40th Birthday, 7th Church Anniversary Amid Jubilation

Published

2 days ago

May 23, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Apostle Omotosho Marks 40th Birthday, 7th Church Anniversary Amid Jubilation

CALABAR — Jubilant scenes filled the atmosphere on May 21 as family members, church congregants, associates, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 40th birthday of Apostle Omotosho Tope Joseph alongside the 7th anniversary of his ministry.

The colourful double celebration attracted religious leaders, dignitaries, and members of the Christian community, who described the occasion as a reflection of God’s faithfulness and the steady growth of the ministry over the years.

Among dignitaries present at the event were Pastor Dr. Elizabeth Aremu, the wife of Bishop Thomas Aremu, Assistant Director-General of the Department of State Services, Kolawole Sokoya, as well as other notable guests.

Speaking during the event, Apostle Omotosho expressed gratitude to God and appreciated everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration through prayers, gifts, goodwill messages, and physical presence.

He described his attainment of 40 years and the progress recorded by the church within seven years as evidence of divine grace and unwavering support from members and partners of the ministry.

“With a heart full of gratitude, I sincerely thank everyone who celebrated with me on my 40th birthday and our 7th Church Anniversary. Your prayers, kind words, gifts, presence, and overwhelming show of love made the occasion truly unforgettable,” he said.

The programme featured prayer sessions for Nigeria, prophetic ministrations, thanksgiving, and tributes from members and associates, who praised the cleric for his commitment to spiritual growth, humanitarian service, and mentorship.
Several speakers at the gathering described

Apostle Omotosho as a compassionate leader dedicated to uplifting lives and advancing Christian values within the community.

The cleric also appreciated his family, friends, church workers, and members for their steadfast support toward the vision of the ministry.

“Thank you to my family, friends, members, and well-wishers for standing by me and supporting the vision God has given us. May the Lord richly bless each and every one of you for your love, sacrifices, and continued support,” he added.

The celebration ended with a special thanksgiving service and renewed prayers for greater impact and expansion of the ministry in the years ahead.

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I’m City Boy For Life” — Obi Cubana Fires Back At Exit Rumours

Published

2 days ago

May 22, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Obi Cubana's Lawyer Was Wrong, Says DAFCT Communications

“I’m City Boy For Life” — Obi Cubana Fires Back At Exit Rumours

Popular businessman and socialite, Obi Cubana, has dismissed rumours suggesting that he has withdrawn from the City Boy Movement, declaring that he remains committed to the political support group.

Obi Cubana, whose real name is Obinna Iyiegbu, reportedly described the claims making the rounds on social media as false and misleading, insisting that he remains “City Boy for life.”

The entrepreneur was reacting to reports alleging that he had distanced himself from the movement following criticism from some social media users over his political alignment.

In a statement circulated online, the businessman reaffirmed his loyalty to the group and stressed that his involvement was based on his belief in constructive engagement and national development.

He also denied allegations that he made derogatory comments against supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi,

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General Buratai to deliver University of Ilorin’s distinguished personality lecture

Published

4 days ago

May 20, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda: General Buratai Remains Loyal, Rebuffs Misinformation – Engr Hassan

General Buratai to deliver University of Ilorin’s distinguished personality lecture

The Department of Criminology and Security Studies at the University of Ilorin has announced that a former Chief of Army Staff and former Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Ambassador Lt. General (Rtd) Tukur Buratai (CFR), will deliver its prestigious Distinguished Personality Lecture.

The lecture is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, at the University Auditorium by 10:00 a.m. The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), is expected to be the Chief Host, while Dr. Monsurat Isiaka (Ph.D.), Head of the Department, will serve as Host.

Buratai, who brings a wealth of unmatched experience from his military and diplomatic service, will be speaking on the critical theme: “The Armed Forces of Nigeria and National Security: The Youth and National Aspirations.”

The lecture aims to foster critical conversation about Nigeria’s future security landscape, the pivotal role of the armed forces in national stability, and the interplay between national aspirations and the country’s youth population.