Ihejiraka hails Buratai, says quality officers won war against insurgents

From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja

Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejiraka (retd) has said that the quality of officers in the Nigerian Army was the major factor behind the successes recorded against Boko Haram insurgents during his tenure.

Ihejiraka stated this in Abuja on Saturday at the TY Buratai Literary Initiative (TYBLI) Young Adult Literature Prize 2025 award ceremony.

The former Army chief noted that the war against insurgency is not only about weapons and tactics but also about the quality, dedication, and patriotism of the officers prosecuting the mission.

“Reflecting on my tenure as Chief of Army Staff, the success of our mission hinged on the quality of the officers under my command,” he said.

“In then Brigadier-General Buratai, I saw a man of exceptional discipline, competence and commitment. His appointment as Commander of 2 Brigade in Port Harcourt was a strategic decision, and he exceeded all expectations, demonstrating exemplary leadership and raising the bar for others.”

Ihejiraka stressed that solving the nation’s security challenges requires collective responsibility, not just government action.

“Much of the solution to our insecurity lies not only with the government at the national and sub-national levels but with all our leaders well represented in this gathering,” he said.

“We must continue to actively support government efforts in creating an enabling environment for our youths to thrive.”

The retired general commended the TY Buratai Literary Initiative, describing it as a laudable effort aimed at promoting education and moral development among Nigerian youths.

“Initiatives like the Young Adults Literature Prize are the very bedrock upon which the educational and moral advancement we seek for Nigeria must be built,” he added.

In his remarks, Chairman of TYBLI, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), said the initiative was designed to encourage young Nigerians to read, write and think critically about issues affecting society, with a view to using literacy as a tool for national development.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to winners of the 2025 edition. Adoo Guyuur, from the North Central zone, emerged overall winner, carting home ₦1.5 million, while the six zonal winners received ₦500,000 each.

Veteran journalists Simon Kolawole and Femi Oyewele were also honoured for their outstanding contributions to journalism, national development, and humanity.