By Sumaila Ogbaje
Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has urged newly promoted Nigerian Army officers to remain loyal, disciplined and committed to the sustenance of democracy in the country.
Buratai gave the charge 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.
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, emphasised that 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,” he added.
He 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”. (NAN)
