Buratai Awarded Honorary Doctorate Degree of Letters by NUAB
By Lawrence Bilal Audu
The esteemed former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai Rtd, was on Saturday, bestowed with a prestigious accolade, an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Letters by the Nigerian Army University Biu (NUAB).
The event took place during the University’s inaugural Convocation Ceremony, at the Convocation Square in Biu, Borno State, Northeast Nigeria.
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The recognition serves as a remarkable addition to Buratai’s illustrious career, further solidifying his exceptional contributions to the nation.
In his acceptance speech, General Buratai who is the founder and first pro-chancellor of the University, expressed appreciation for the award noting that, it is indeed a privilege to be part of Africa’s first green university, the Nigerian Army University Biu particularly on this day of inaugural convocation.
He stated further that, since the arrival of colonial masters, the people of Biu and by extension, Borno state have been leaders and pioneers in educational initiative throughout the country and beyond.
“This is because our people recognize the power of education and transformation on individuals, their families, villages and communities.
Throughout the history of this land, families and communities have made significant contributions in education. The view it as a means to escape poverty, acquire gainful employment, generate wealth, improve the standard of living and empower the next generation to live better than they did.”
“The insecurity that has been the bane of Nigeria since 2009, has its roots in ignorance and the consequences of lack of education by a large section of the society. One of the decisions to establish the Nigerian army university is strategic. It is a long-term plan to contain insecurity in the northeast through education.”
He appreciated God for seeing him through his forty-year career of military service and for blessing him with life and good health after retirement, so that I can continue to contribute to nation building. He averred that that award and the traditional title earlier received from the Biu emirate, would further motivate him to further rededicate his life to the service of humanity.
While charging the graduands to remain worthy ambassadors of the institution, by being excellent representatives wherever they find themselves, the former army chief applauded their parents for their support and encouragement. He equally applauded the university management for their dedication and sacrifice in achieving the success being celebrated.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who is equally the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of the University felicitated with the graduands, urging them to be good brand ambassadors of the institution and to positively exploit the opportunities that abound in the country.
The Pro-Chancellor also disclosed that by establishing the Nigerian Army University Biu, the Army adopted the strategic option of exploring a non-kinetic approach to its counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria.
“We sought to achieve social inclusion, and gender balance and expand diversity through education”, he clarified.
General Lagbaja asserted, that the emergence and growth of the institution in the heart of the North East, an area, which he said was until recently, bedeviled by violence and insecurity, is a testament to the successes the Nigerian military have collectively achieved in the counter-insurgency efforts.
The ceremony, held in the scenic town of Biu, was a grand affair, marked with grace and elegance.
Dignitaries from diverse fields of expertise graced the occasion, bearing witness to the well-deserved recognition of Buratai’s remarkable accomplishments.
As the curtains drew open on the Maiden Convocation Ceremony, a sense of anticipation filled the air.
The esteemed Lieutenant General, a figure revered for his exemplary service in the Nigerian Army as well as his diplomatic endeavours, stood tall on the stage, radiating poise and humility.
The conferment of the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Letters upon Buratai was met with resounding applause, a testament to the profound impact he has made in his various roles.
The NUAB, an institution committed to fostering knowledge and intellectual growth, recognized his invaluable contributions to the nation’s development and his tireless efforts in upholding peace and security.
Buratai’s decorated career, spanning significant milestones and accomplishments, has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. This honorary distinction acknowledges his unwavering commitment, leadership, and profound understanding of the complexities of the nation’s security landscape.
Rendering the summary of Honorary Awardees and graduating students by class of degree, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kyari Mohammed equally affirmed the award of Doctor of Laws Honoris Causa to HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd).
Prof Kyari declared that 20 graduates of the University made First Class, while 207 graduating students bagged Second Class Upper Division and 186 of the convocating students fell in the Second-Class Lower Division. Four of the graduates made Third Class.
Highlights of the maiden convocation were the presentation of eponymous awards to students who graduated with flying colours. Ibrahim Dorcas Kutawalang of the Department of Political Science emerged as the overall best-graduating student with a cummulative Grade Point Average of 4.84 and carted away the Pro-Chancellor’s and Vice Chancellor’s Prizes, amongst other prized awards.
As the ceremony concluded, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai emerged from the stage, not only adorned with the honorary degree but also with a renewed sense of purpose. This recognition will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for future generations, propelling them to strive for excellence in their respective fields.
The conferment of the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Letters by the Nigerian Army University Biu represents a momentous occasion, honoring a man who has dedicated his life to the service of his country. Buratai’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Nigeria’s history, and this esteemed recognition serves as a testament to his exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment.
