More Accolades as General Buratai Bags ABITFA Peace Building Award
_…tasks authorities on investment in cultural identity_
By Lawrence Audu
General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, the distinguished former Chief of Army Staff and Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, has once again been honoured for his outstanding contributions to peace-building efforts. This time, he proudly received the prestigious ABITFA Peace Building Award, adding yet another remarkable achievement to his illustrious career.
The grand investiture ceremony took place at the Abuja International Théâtre Festival Awards, where the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell Sanz had the distinct privilege of bestowing the award upon General Buratai. This momentous occasion was part of an event themed “Peace Building, Performing Arts, and Society,” which sought to harness the power of artistic performances in fostering harmony and tranquility.
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Speaking in line with the theme of the ceremony, Ambassador Buratai called on the Ministries of the Federal Capital Territory, Arts and Culture, and Tourism to rally behind initiatives such as this.
“We embark on a journey that celebrates not just the richness of our artistic expressions but recognises the transformative power of the performing arts in fostering peace and unity within our society.”
“In this vibrant tapestry of creativity, we find a force that transcends borders, language, and cultural differences. The performing arts have the unique ability to be a universal language, a bridge that connects hearts and minds, and a catalyst for positive change.
“Today, we acknowledge the pivotal role that the performing arts play in shaping our collective narrative, fostering understanding, and building bridges that lead us towards a more harmonious world.” He adds.
He called for adequate funding not merely as a fiscal concern, but an investment in cultural identity, a commitment to nurturing the talents that elevate our nation onto the international stage.
“In alignment with international best practices, where governments wholeheartedly back their artistic communities, we should strive to emulate such support structures.
“The Ministry of FCT, Ministry of Arts & Culture, and Ministry of Tourism possess the instrumental capacity to transform this festival into a catalyst for tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth.” He adds.
General Buratai’s well-deserved recognition stems from his exceptional accomplishments as a military officer. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated unwavering dedication to the liberation of territories previously held captive by the notorious Boko Haram insurgents. His remarkable leadership and strategic acumen played a pivotal role in reclaiming these regions and restoring peace to their inhabitants.
The ABITFA Peace Building Award holds immense significance, symbolizing General Buratai’s tireless pursuit of peace-building initiatives. It serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and promoting security within Nigeria. Furthermore, this esteemed accolade serves as a beacon of inspiration, shining a light on the tremendous impact General Buratai has made not only within his homeland but also on the global stage.
The Abuja International Théâtre Festival Awards provided an ideal platform to honour General Buratai’s remarkable achievements. By aligning the theme of the event with peace-building through performing arts, it emphasized the profound influence of artistic expression in fostering unity and understanding. This synergy between the festival’s objectives and General Buratai’s endeavours highlights the power of collaboration between different sectors in achieving common goals.
General Tukur Yusuf Buratai’s receipt of the ABITFA Peace Building Award serves as a testament to his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to peace. His remarkable contributions to the liberation of territories previously plagued by Boko Haram insurgents have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. This latest accolade further solidifies his legacy as a visionary leader who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of harmony and security. General Buratai’s achievements will continue to inspire and motivate individuals around the world to work towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.
