Out of curiosity, yesterday I decided to ask Deepseek what it knows about Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff. I just to see the depth of the intelligence of the AI app, and have a neutral, unbiased report or profile of the former. I mean something devoid of flattery or vindictive vilification of his person. This was what Deepseek gave me as feedback:
General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, who served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from 2015 to 2021, is widely recognized for his transformative leadership and significant contributions to the Nigerian Army. Below is a synthesis of his key achievements, supported by context from the provided search results:
- Counterinsurgency and National Security
Buratai spearheaded Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP, drastically reducing their territorial control. Under his command:
- 75% reduction in attacks within five months of his appointment (2015), and a 90% decline in suicide bombings by 2017.
- He introduced innovative military strategies, such as the Super Camp Maneuver Concept and Mobile Strike Teams, which disrupted terrorist operations.
- The northeast became safer, enabling the 2019 general elections to proceed peacefully in previously insecure regions.
- Institutional Reforms and Training
Buratai prioritized professionalism and capacity-building:
- Established the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) to address strategic defense gaps and foster research.
- Revived training exercises like Python Dance, Crocodile Smile, and Ayam Akpatuma, enhancing troops’ readiness for internal security operations.
- Expanded foreign training opportunities for officers and soldiers, improving Nigeria’s competitiveness in international military engagements.
- Infrastructure and Welfare Development
His tenure saw unprecedented infrastructural growth:
- Founded Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB), Africa’s first Army university, focusing on technological and military education. The institution expanded rapidly, with 75% of admissions reserved for civilians.
- Upgraded barracks, hospitals (e.g., Level 4 facilities), and housing projects nationwide, significantly boosting troop morale.
- Launched initiatives like Army Farms and Ranches and Barracks Investment Programme to improve soldiers’ welfare and self-sufficiency.
- Technological and Operational Innovations
Buratai modernized the Army’s capabilities:
- Created the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command to combat digital threats.
- Commissioned indigenous Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, reducing reliance on foreign equipment.
- Established specialized units like the Motorcycle Battalion and Special Forces Command for terrain-specific operations.
- Leadership and Diplomacy
- Personal involvement in combat: Buratai frequently led troops on frontline missions, such as the 2020 Limankara hills operation, inspiring soldiers.
- Post-retirement, he served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, strengthening bilateral ties and curbing cross-border crime.
- Promoted physical fitness within the Army, instituting policies like the Body Mass Index standard and completing a 60km run at age 60 to set an example.
- Awards and Legacy
Buratai received numerous honors, including:
- Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
- Traditional titles like Betara of Biu Emirate and Jagunmolu of Saki Land.
- A Doctor of Letters (DLitt) honoris causa from NAUB.
Conclusion
General Buratai’s tenure reshaped the Nigerian Army into a more professional, technologically adept, and responsive institution. His legacy spans counterterrorism victories, educational advancements, and infrastructural development, earning him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most impactful military leaders.
For further details, refer to the cited sources.
As I wrote earlier, the above is from Deepseek, and it is UNEDITED. I think Nigerians must learn how to commend leaders who did well or are doing well for the country,and refrain from peddling lies,rumours and smear campaign simply because certain insecure personalities feel threatened by an individual, then they “kill their prophets.” Look at what’s happening in the North-East today, check the morale of the troops,training and kitting,leadership etc. It has gone down. Commanders no longer lead from the front, in fact theaters of war in the NE and NW are no longer the bastion or second offices of the Service Chiefs. No wonder the country is BOILING. Securing a complex society like Nigeria is not a child’s play but REAL HARDWORK.I strongly believe that it is time for the COAS, CAS,CNS and especially the IGP to dedicate their effort to their main job, and leave this issue of regime protection simply because the politicians are afraid of a coup because of the frustration in the land.