Buratai Advocates Stronger Role for Military Leadership in Diplomacy, Peacekeeping
…Says Nigeria Must Balance Domestic Security with Global Peace Efforts
Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd.), has called for a deeper integration of military leadership into diplomacy and global peacebuilding initiatives, noting that modern security challenges demand military leaders who are also adept in diplomatic engagement.
Amb. Lt.-General Buratai made the calls while speaking as the special guest of honour at a one-day simulation of the United Nations General Assembly for students of the Department of Political Science, Nigerian Army University, Biu, held lecture hall of the Department of Political Science of the university in Biu on Saturday.
Amb. Lt.-General Buratai was represented by Brig.-Gen. Muhammad Kabir Galadanci (Rtd.), who emphasised the evolving responsibilities of military figures in today’s global arena.
The former COAS stated that 21st-century military leaders must possess diplomatic acumen alongside strategic and operational capabilities, noting that “military leaders are no longer confined to operational command; they now serve as critical actors in diplomatic engagement, peacebuilding, and security cooperation.”
Citing Nigeria’s long-standing contributions to international peacekeeping, Buratai noted the country’s leadership role in global and regional missions, including its early involvement in the United Nations peacekeeping operations starting from Congo in 1960 and in ECOWAS-led missions across West Africa.
“Nigeria has deployed over 200,000 troops in 41 missions across the globe,” he said, “and our engagements in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia through ECOWAS underline our unwavering commitment to African-led peace initiatives.”
Buratai acknowledged the critical role Nigeria played in the formation and operations of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), despite facing enormous financial and logistical challenges.
“The ECOMOG missions, while commendable, were hampered by coordination issues, limited international support, and operational inefficiencies,” he noted. “Still, they laid a strong foundation for regional peacekeeping frameworks and taught us vital lessons in leadership, funding, and collaboration.”
He further stressed that Nigeria’s internal security issues—such as insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes—have strained its capacity to participate robustly in external peace missions, urging the government to adopt a balanced approach.
“To maintain its global peacekeeping role, Nigeria must strengthen its military capacity through better training, modern equipment, and improved civil-military relations,” Buratai advised. “Equally important is the need to foster accountability and transparency in deployments.”
He reiterated Nigeria’s push for the reform of global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to reflect equitable representation for Africa, arguing that such reforms would democratise global governance.
“Advocating for multilateralism and institutional reforms is a diplomatic priority for Nigeria,” he said. “We must ensure Africa has a permanent voice at the table, especially on matters of peace and security.”
Buratai concluded by urging Nigeria to deepen regional cooperation, particularly through ECOWAS and the African Union, while also addressing root causes of conflict at home through governance reforms and socioeconomic investments.
“Peacekeeping must be strategic, legally grounded, and well-supported,” he said, adding that “With the right investments and partnerships, Nigeria can continue to shape a more secure and just global order.”
Also speaking, Professor Oluyemi Fayomi, coordinator and chaperone, said the simulation and field trip were designed to expose students to the intricacies of international diplomacy and multilateral decision-making.
Professor Fayomi emphasised the multifaceted value of the simulation, describing it as a hands-on academic activity that bridges classroom learning with real-world diplomatic practice.
“The simulation serves as a unique platform to deepen students’ understanding of international politics, negotiation, and consensus-building,” she said.
“It helps students develop critical soft skills such as lobbying, public speaking, and articulation of national interests within a multilateral context.”
She added that the event was particularly relevant to NAUB students, given Nigeria’s active participation in international affairs and the university’s strategic role in shaping future leaders with a sound understanding of global governance.
Speaking on the legacy of Lt. Gen. (Amb.) Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), whose contributions have significantly influenced both military and academic institutions in Nigeria, Prof. Fayomi described him as a visionary leader. “His approach to leadership spans capacity building, military professionalism, and academic development,” she noted.
“General Buratai’s tenure as Chief of Army Staff from July 13, 2015, to January 26, 2021, is widely recognized for his direct involvement in counterinsurgency operations and his commitment to infrastructural growth.
She said that the establishment of the Nigerian Army University Biu and the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Institute for War and Peace in Borno State continues to play a pivotal role in both military and civilian scholarship.
Prof. Fayomi urged the students of political science to view their academic journey as preparation for shaping national and international discourse. “In an increasingly interconnected world, the study of political science, especially with concentrations in international relations and peace studies, is vital,” she said.
“Students must embrace informed engagement, develop analytical tools, and cultivate soft skills that enable them to navigate and contribute meaningfully to global affairs.”
She said the UNGA simulation at NAUB not only reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence but also underscores the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership roles in diplomacy, governance, and peacebuilding.
