Retired Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai has praised President Bola Tinubu for taking a bold approach to fixing Nigeria’s economic problems. Speaking in Abuja during a lecture held to celebrate Rotimi Amaechi’s 60th birthday, Buratai said the current government’s policy direction marks a clear break from the past and is necessary for national progress.
Reflecting on his relationship with Amaechi, which began in 2011 when Amaechi was Governor of Rivers State, Buratai described him as a dedicated leader who values both security and political development. He said Amaechi’s actions during the 2022 APC presidential primaries showed his continued relevance and potential in Nigerian politics. According to him, Amaechi is the kind of leader who understands the importance of security in maintaining the country’s stability.
Buratai didn’t hold back in his assessment of previous governments. He criticized the economic policies that began with the Structural Adjustment Program under General Ibrahim Babangida and continued through the fuel subsidy regimes of former Presidents Shagari, Obasanjo, Jonathan, and Buhari. He said these policies left many Nigerians worse off and deepened the country’s poverty rate.
In contrast, he praised the Tinubu administration’s current economic measures. He called them bold and necessary, saying they show a willingness to confront long-standing issues directly, even if the effects are harsh in the short term. He acknowledged that some of the policies have been criticized as harsh or insensitive, especially regarding poverty and insecurity. Still, he remains hopeful that better outcomes will emerge in the second half of the administration’s term.
Buratai ended his remarks by encouraging Nigerians to stay united and support the government’s reforms. He believes national resilience and cooperation are essential to achieving lasting peace and prosperity.
The event drew a large crowd of political leaders, security experts, and influential Nigerians who gathered to honor Amaechi’s public service and contributions to the country.
