Buratai Hails Amaechi’s Leadership, Commends Tinubu’s Bold Economic Reforms at 60th Birthday Lecture
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, delivered a compelling address at the commemorative lecture marking the 60th birthday of Nigeria’s renowned politician and statesman, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
The event, held in Abuja on 31 May 2025, drew an audience of prominent political figures, security experts, and members of Nigeria’s elite.
In his remarks, Buratai paid glowing tribute to Amaechi, recounting their longstanding relationship which dates back to 2011 when Amaechi served as Governor of Rivers State.
He described the celebrant as “a leader deeply committed to security and political development,” highlighting his strong performance during the APC 2022 presidential primaries and affirming his continued relevance and promise in Nigeria’s political future.
“Rotimi Amaechi exemplifies a leader who prioritizes security, a trait crucial for Nigeria’s stability,” Buratai remarked.
He praised the former Minister of Transportation’s proactive engagement in the national political discourse and emphasized his enduring influence and leadership potential.
Turning to national issues, Buratai used the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its bold and radical approach to economic reform.
He described the government’s policy direction as “a necessary departure” from what he called the gradual and often ineffective economic reforms implemented by previous administrations from the Structural Adjustment Programmes of the IBB era to the fuel subsidy regimes under Shagari, Obasanjo, Jonathan, and Buhari.
He noted that while these past policies gradually impoverished Nigerians, Tinubu’s decisive economic measures represent a bold attempt to confront long-standing socio-economic challenges head-on.
“The radical measures are a decisive shift from the gradual suffering of the past. They show a willingness to confront the challenges directly, even if the impact is profound and immediate,” Buratai stated.
He added that a deep understanding and patience are required to appreciate the long-term benefits of the current reforms.
Nonetheless, the former Army Chief acknowledged the real and pressing concerns around poverty and insecurity, warning that the perceived insensitivity of some government policies remains a major challenge. He expressed hope that the second half of the Tinubu administration would yield more tangible and positive outcomes for Nigerians.
Concluding his address, Buratai called for national resilience and urged citizens to support ongoing reform efforts, especially those aimed at restoring security and economic stability.
The commemorative lecture served as a platform to celebrate Amaechi’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, as tributes poured in from across the political and security spectrum.
