Buratai tasks inter-faith
Buratai tasks inter-faith organisations, Traditional
Rulers on peace, cohesion
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf
Buratai, has charged the National Inter-Faith and Religious
Organisation for Peace (NIFROP) to soundly preach and aggressively
promote peace, unity and mutual cohesion among Nigerians of diverse
religious and ethnic affiliations.
Buratai, made the appeal to the executive officials of the
organisation, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Army
Headquarters (AH) Conference Room, on Thursday.
Buratai, who was represented by the Army’s Chief of Policy and
Plans (COPP), Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun, noted that
religion is the most perfect and veritable platform to unite and
bring Nigerians of various classes and backgrounds together.
Thus, NIFROP and other religious leaders should endeavour to
preach messages of oneness, love, and togetherness, instead of
gospels that cause division and animosity among diverse
Nigerians.
The COAS, commended the inter-faith organisation’s efforts in
using their religious minds to reach out to Almighty God, asking
him to intercede in the country’s affairs.
He urged them, together with other Christian and Islamic leaders
to continue supplicating peace and unity for the country, saying
they should also use their religious platforms to educate Nigerians
on the essence and virtues of peace, love, compassion and true
brotherhood among themselves.
Earlier in a remark, Bishop Sunday Garba Yayi, thanked God for
the great leadership ability and wisdom he endowed the Army Chief,
which has enabled him to keep the NA intact, while also protecting
the territorial integrity of the nation.
The Bishop, who is the National Coordinator of the association,
stressed that without peace even they the clergymen cannot preach
the gospel.
He disclosed that NIFROP is an organisation that believes in the
co-existence of the human race, despite the religious
differences.
He noted that God put Nigerians, both Muslims, Christians and
other worshippers in this country, because he expects us to
co-exist together and live in peace, rather than antagonizing and
killing one another.
Insecurity: Bwari Emir applauds Army, bestows title on
Buratai
The Emir of Bwari, Alhaji Steal Musa Ijokoro (II), the Sarkin
Bwari (Emir), has applauded the officers and men of the Nigerian
Army (NA) for efficiently and squarely dealing with emerging
security challenges affecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),
and across the country.
The Emir, gave the commendation when he led other eminent
traditional title holders of his emirate to pay a courtesy visit on
the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf
Buratai.
At the COAS’ conference room, Alh. Ijakoro, said the relative
peace and atmosphere of calmness enjoyed in Abuja, and its
environs, can be attributed to the doggedness, foresight and
commitment of NA, under the leadership of Lt. Gen Buratai.
“I heartily convey to you the warm greetings of my good people
of Bwari emirate. I equally on their behalf, wish to sincerely
appreciate you, and the entire Nigerian Army for your tireless
commitment and sacrifice in keeping the country safe and
peaceful.
“This is amidst varying security challenges ranging from
insurgency, banditry and kidnapping, among others,” said the
paramount traditional leader.
The Sarkin Bwari, disclosed that virtually all the Army Barracks
and many other important institutions in the FCT are located in his
domain.
He urged the COAS and his officers to remain unrelenting in
their fight against insurgents and other criminal elements holding
the country to ransom.
The Emir, thereafter bestowed the traditional title of “Birman
Bwari” which translates to “The Courageous Defender of Bwari”
emirate to Lt. Gen. Buratai, in recognition of his remarkable
achievements as the Army Chief, especially in the fight against
terrorism in North-East.
Amidst thunderous applause, Alh. Ijakoro, presented a sword of
honour, copy of the Holy Qur’an and appointment letter to the
COAS.
While accepting the chieftancy title, Buratai, expressed joy
over the special honour, reiterating his commitment to working with
other security agencies to continue keeping the nation’s capital
safe.
Buratai, also assured the Emir that the officers and men of the
Army resident at Bwari will cooperate and work with him, disclosing
that a mass housing project for officers and soldiers of NA will
soon be inaugurated at the area council.
The COAS, noted that since Bwari is a gateway into the city of
Abuja, there is need for the Emir and members of his emirate
council to collaborate with the Army to flush out kidnappers and
bandits, terrorizing the Kaduna-Abuja highway.
“I want to assure you that the Nigerian Army is ready and
willing to work with traditional institutions in the FCT.
“Also, let me inform you that we shall soon extend some of our
military operations such as Operation Positive Identification, and
Ayem Apkatuma to Abuja,” Buratai said.
He consoled the Sarki over the demise of his late father,
calling on him to emulate the exemplary leadership qualities
exhibited by the late Emir and also lead with the fear of God.
The Chief Imam of Bwari, Sheikh Idris Ibrahim, offered
supplications for the divine protection and guidance for COAS and
the entire NA.