Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has rejected assertions that Nigeria is close to collapsing, calling such claims misinformed because they ignore the nation’s enduring ability to persevere and overcome difficulties.
In a document titled “Nigeria: An Unbreakable Nation Rising Through Challenges,” Buratai stated that predictions, such as the 2011 CSAT assessment, do not take into account the leadership improvements and the determination of the Nigerian populace.
He stressed that Nigeria has endured political instability, economic crises, and security threats that would likely have destabilized numerous other nations.
Buratai remarked, “From independence to date, our leaders, civilian and military, have steered this country out of storms many nations would not survive. Nigeria cannot and will not fail.”
The former army chief commended past Nigerian leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Yakubu Gowon, and Murtala Mohammed, for successfully guiding the country through critical periods, suggesting that the current leadership is both more responsible and more connected with the citizens.
While acknowledging the current economic difficulties, Buratai cautioned that judging Nigeria based only on present challenges is “shortsighted.”
He pointed out that the country remains Africa’s largest economy, with increasing influence in industries such as telecommunications, fintech, entertainment, and human capital development.
Regarding security, he labeled the current issues as a “renewal phase,” maintaining that Boko Haram has been substantially weakened compared to its most active years.
He cited ongoing infrastructure projects like the modernization of railways, major road constructions, airport upgrades, and the Dangote refinery as proof that Nigeria is actively investing in its future growth.
Buratai also criticized Western organizations for producing “doomsday projections,” urging international partners to focus instead on investment, the transfer of technology, and fairer global trade systems.
He advised Nigerian leaders to aim for greater economic diversification, implement decentralized security strategies, and cultivate stronger national pride among citizens.
He also appealed to African nations to hasten progress toward regional integration under the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) and to advocate for a more equitable global financial framework.
He concluded, “Nigeria’s destiny lies in the hands of Nigerians, a people blessed with abundant resources and an unbreakable spirit. We will not fail. We are rising.”
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