celebrity radar - gossips
Exclusive: Unveiling The Real Buratai, From A Close Perspective By Amb Prince Sixtus Opara
Exclusive: Unveiling The Real Buratai, From A Close Perspective By Amb Prince Sixtus Opara
There is a popular adage that says “You can never know someone until you go closer to him” irrespective of people’s perceptions toward such persons from afar.
Today, we shall be unveiling a quintessential personality per excellent, a bridge builder, humanist, humility personified personality, a detribalized gentle man whose beautiful relationships cut across all the regions and religions devoid of tribal, religion or ethnicity sentiments, that amazing individual is, His Excellency, Amb General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, one of the longest serving former chief of Army Staff in Nigeria.
General Tukur Yusuf Buratai was appointed the Chief Of Army Staff by former President Muhammad Buhari in July 2015 and he served till 27th of January 2021, making him the longest-serving Chief Of Army Staff in the history of Nigeria, though he ought to have retired from the service on the 3rd of January 2021, but seems Buhari, having discovered such a wonderful awesome figure decided to keep him a beat much more longer than the required time before he bowed out of service on the 27th January 2021.
For us to move forward as a People in Nigeria we must emulate some of the lifestyles and qualities of persons like Amb General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, a distinguished personality who earned the respect and honour of whosoever comes across him by his carriage of humility, Simplicity, gentility and detribalized attitudinal mindset in which he exhibits in his relationship with others, such characteristics gestures of soft-spoken General Buratai, distinguished him amongst his peers and colleagues in the military, while he was the Chief of Army Staff, Federal Republic Of Nigeria, majority of the people who benefited immensely from him are not of the same origin and religion as such does not constitute part of his considerations while assigning responsibilities such as contracts and appointment in the military in as much as you are efficient and capable of handling such task, what a phenomenal individual with such a noble gesture!
Am writing this particular piece on General Buratai on a range of my close encounters with him and also from the perspective views of many whom I interviewed at the cause of compiling this article, who must have met and worked closely with him in the past.
Unlike most people who are intoxicated by power, General Buratai is never carried by his positions and fame, he remained humble and true to himself both within and outside power, and he did his very best to curb the menace of terrorism and banditry in Nigeria despite being sabotaged by his detractors and some of our politicians who enjoy chaos and violence in some certain quarters due to what they stand to gain in such circumstances and scenario.
General Buratai built infrastructures like never before while he was in the service much more than any of his predecessors in the past who held such exalted positions, as the Chief of Army Staff, he equipped the military, he empowered officers and men of the Nigerian Army, including the civilians and the media to ensure Ultimum delivering and services, General Buratai is a man of accountability and result oriented per excellent who derives great joy in results and perfections, no wonder former president Buhari found it so difficult to disengage his services making him to be the most outstanding and longest-serving Chief of Army Staff in the history of the Nigerian Military.
Nigerian-born General Tukur Yusuf Buratai is from Buratai town, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. His father, Yusuf Buratai, was a non-commissioned officer in the Royal West African Frontier Force and World War II veteran who fought in Burma. General Buratai had his primary education at Buratai town and thereafter gained admission to Government Teachers College Potiskum, Yobe State, where he graduated with distinction.
In January 1981, Buratai attended the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna as a member of the Burma battalion of the 29 Regular Combatant Course (29 RC) where he was given the prestigious appointment of Cadet Sergeant Major (CSM). On successful completion of his Officer Cadet training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 17 December 1983 into the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army.
General Buratai has a degree in history from the University of Maiduguri and a degree in philosophy from Bangladesh University of Professionals, Dhaka.
He is also a graduate of the National Defence College, Mirpur, Bangladesh.
He served in 26 Amphibious Battalion Elele, Port Harcourt, Military Observer at the United Nations Verification Mission II in Angola; later 26 Guards Battalion, Lagos; Lagos Garrison Command Camp. Lt Gen Buratai also served as an administrative officer at the State House, Abuja; 82 Motorized Battalion; 81 Battalion, Bakassi Peninsular; Army Headquarters Garrison, Abuja before he became a Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, earning the prestigious “Pass Staff College Dagger” (psc(+)) appellation.
Subsequently, he served at AHQ Dept of Army Policy and Plans, Abuja; as Assistant Chief of Staff Administrative Matters, HQ Infantry Centre Jaji. Additionally, he was again at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College as Director Dept of Land Warfare from where he was appointed Commander 2 Brigade, Port Harcourt, doubling as Commander, Sector 2 JTF Operation PULO SHIELD.
Upon promotion to the rank of Major General, he was appointed Commandant, of Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji; thereafter he was appointed Director of Procurement DHQ before being appointed Force Commander of the newly reconstituted Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTNF) under the auspices of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Benin Republic, an appointment he held till he became Chief of Army Staff.
His operational deployments include Military Observer at the United Nations Verification Mission II in Angola, Op HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsular, OP MESA, Op PULO SHIELD, Op SAFE CONDUCT, MNJTF, Op ZAMAN LAFIYA, and Op LAFIYA DOLE.
He was appointed Chief of Army Staff on 13 July 2015, by the then-president Buhari, the immediate past president of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria.
General Tukur Buratai eventually retired from the military on the 27th of January 2021 and was subsequently appointed as a Nigeria Ambassador to the Benin Republic the same year because of his dedication to duty, you can say he was retired and not tired of rendering services to his father’s land, Nigeria and humanity at large.
Please before you come out to utter vague words on an anointed child of Destiny, kindly do your thorough check on such personality via the people who must have had encounters with him in the past.
Kevin David Kaydee Releases Inspiring Single “Oluwa Settle Me”
Rising music artist Kevin David Kaydee has released a powerful new single titled Oluwa Settle Me, a soulful Afro-inspired anthem that blends heartfelt prayer with modern rhythm.
“Oluwa Settle Me” captures the everyday cry of many believers seeking breakthrough, peace, and divine favour. With emotionally rich melodies and uplifting instrumentation, the song expresses a sincere plea to God for complete answers to life’s pressing questions—career, destiny, relationships, and spiritual fulfilment.
Drawing from Afrocentric sounds and contemporary gospel influences, the track stands out for its simplicity, sincerity, and spiritual depth. Kevin David Kaydee delivers the message with passion, creating a worshipful atmosphere that resonates across age groups and cultures.
The song’s message of hope and dependence on God positions it as more than just music,it is a prayer set to melody. By fusing spirituality with modern lifestyle rhythms, “Oluwa Settle Me” reflects the growing wave of gospel music that speaks directly to real-life struggles while pointing listeners back to faith.
As gospel music continues to evolve across Africa and beyond, Kevin David Kaydee’s latest release reinforces music as a powerful tool for encouragement, reflection, and spiritual connection.
“Oluwa Settle Me” is now gaining attention among gospel music lovers for its relatable message and soulful sound, marking another significant step in the artist’s growing musical journey.
**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.
celebrity radar - gossips
E‑Money’s Grand Gesture: A Closer Look at the SUV Gift to Chinedu “Aki” Ikedieze
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.
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