By Augustine Ehikioya
Glad with the World Institute For Peace (WIP) recognition to the former Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army and now an Ambassador, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, his ex-coursemates on Sunday welcomed the development.
The WIP, at a symposium in Lagos State on Sunday had declared Buratai as the pioneer “Bearer of Security Torch” in the world due to his great contribution to security in Africa and the world.
His coursemates of the 29th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) said that Buratai has remained a champion from the course and they are not surprised with his successes achieved in Nigeria and abroad.
Chairman of the 29th Regular Course, Commodore Matthew Bolaji Teidi (Rtd) said “We started together at the NDA in 1981. What has been said here about him is true about him.
“He started this our ex-coursemate before he became the Chief of Army Staff. He is a man of peace.
“Thank you for recognizing him and making him the pioneer Torch Bearer,” he stated on behalf of the group.
Six members of the 29th RC were present at the event.
Top dignitaries who attended the symposium included the Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Bush and Farrant Co. Ltd, Dr. Manzo Armed; the former Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (Rtd), and Chief Executive Officer, Nam-Nam Petroleum, Alhaji Usman Nan-Nam.
Others are former National Deputy President, Nigerian Guild of Editors and CEO, Skymit Media Group, Alhaji Suleiman Uba Gaya; the Representative of Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ali Zango, Commander, Area F, Nigeria Police Force, Ikeja.
Also at the symposium are Chairman of Babur Community in Lagos State, Alhaji Isah Dogo; KIA Representative in Nigeria, Alhaji Mas’udu Ahmed; Director, Nigerian Shippers Council, Alhaji Mohammed Malgwi; Sarkin Yakin Garkuwan Keffi, Engineer Hassan Mohammed and Founder of the Chukwuma Nwokocha Ministries, Pastor Chukwuma Nwokocha.