His Excellency Ambassador Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, delivered a compelling remarks at the commemorative lecture marking the 60th birthday of Nigeria’s renowned politician and statesman, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, held in Abuja on 31 May 2025.
In his remarks, Buratai paid homage to the celebrant, acknowledging his longstanding relationship dating back to 2011 when Amaechi was governor of Rivers State. He described Amaechi as a leader deeply committed to security and political development, noting his performance at the APC 2022 presidential primaries and his promising political future.
“Rotimi Amaechi exemplifies a leader who prioritizes security, a trait crucial for Nigeria’s stability,” Buratai remarked. He praised the former governor’s proactive engagement in Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasizing his significant influence and leadership potential. Buratai also took the opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu’s government for adopting a radical approach to resolving Nigeria’s economic problems throughout decisive policies, a move he described as a “necessary departure” from previous graduations approach to economic reforms by the previous administrations. He explained that while past administrations, from IBB’s structural adjustment programs to those of Shagari, Obasanjo, Jonathan, and Buhari, fuel subsidy regimes, they implemented economic reforms that gradually pauperised Nigerians. However, the current administration’s decisive and comprehensive economic policies represent a bold attempt to address deep-seated socio-economic issues confronting Nigeria over the years. Buratai said this bold measure has its advantages. Deep understanding is required to allow for the realisation of its benefits.
“The radical measures are a decisive shift from the gradual suffering in the past,” Buratai stated. “It shows a willingness to confront the challenges head-on, even if the impact is profound and immediate.”
However, he acknowledged that the main challenge remains the perceived insensitivity of government policies to poverty and insecurity, which are real. He postulated that the second half of this administration may make a tangible difference.
Buratai’s speech underscored the importance of embracing reform with resilience and urged Nigerians to support Tinubu’s government’s efforts to restore security and economic prosperity. The event was attended by prominent political figures, security experts, and members of Nigeria’s elite, all paying tribute to Amaechi’s contributions to the nation’s development and leadership.