From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt General Tukur Yusuf Buratai has been recognized as the “Shining Light of the North East” by the Concerned Citizens of the North East region.
The award, presented at an awards and dinner event, acknowledges Buratai’s outstanding contributions to the region, particularly his efforts to combat the Boko Haram insurgency and empower the youth.
Other recipients of the award include Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, Sheikh Goni Umar Goni Usman, and Ummu Kalthum Muhammad.
In his acceptance speech, Buratai emphasized the importance of supporting and empowering the youth, calling for innovative programs to unlock their potential. He also stressed the need for unity and development in the North East, advocating for a focus on combating issues of ethnicity, religion, and sectionalism.
The Concerned Citizens of the North East organization aims to provide a platform for North Easterners to collaborate and build a better future for the region.
Guest speaker Dr Hassan Zanna Boguma lauded Buratai for his transformative military leadership, which he credited with the defeat of Boko Haram in the region. Maj Gen ID Penap, a guest of honour, commended Buratai’s visionary leadership, describing him as a “proud son of the North East.”