By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (retd), has commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as bold reforms that have dismantled long-standing obstacles to Nigeria’s growth and development.

In a congratulatory message marking the President’s third anniversary in office, Buratai said Tinubu would be remembered as a leader who took difficult but necessary decisions aimed at repositioning the nation’s economy and strengthening its institutions.

According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy and implementation of foreign exchange reforms were courageous measures that previous administrations had been unable to undertake despite their significance to national development.

“You have not only made history, you have broken a long-standing jinx that held our nation back for far too long in many critical aspects of our nationhood and national development,” Buratai stated.

The former Army Chief said several policies of the administration were already yielding positive results, pointing to the growing acceptance of Nigerian naira debit cards internationally, the gradual revival of local refineries, the student loan scheme and ongoing infrastructure projects across the country.

He also praised the Federal Capital Territory Administration for completing major road projects that had remained unfinished for over 16 years, while noting that rehabilitation works on several federal highways were progressing steadily.

On security, Buratai lauded the administration’s efforts in combating insurgency, terrorism and banditry, saying renewed military operations were producing encouraging results.

He highlighted recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP elements in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.

According to him, the neutralisation of several ISWAP commanders demonstrated the progress being made by security agencies in the fight against terrorism and other forms of criminality.

Buratai congratulated President Tinubu in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and also commended the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their commitment to national security.

He, however, urged the government to sustain and intensify military and intelligence-driven operations in the coming year.

“The next one year calls for more aggressive kinetic actions and intensive intelligence-led operations,” he said.

While acknowledging the challenges facing the country, Buratai said the President had shown courage by prioritising long-term national interests over short-term political considerations.

“Celebrating Mr President does not mean ignoring the challenges. Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances. That is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he said.

The retired General reaffirmed his support for the administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the President would ultimately deliver a brighter future for Nigerians.

He also prayed for divine guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead the country.

“We stand with you. We see the foundation being laid and remain hopeful for a brighter future for our dear nation under your able leadership,” Buratai added.