Nigerians Must Have Tolerance Beyond Ethno-religious Lines If It Must Attain Greatness In Comity of Nations - General Buratai

Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), retired Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai says Nigeria could attain the greatness it deserves in the comity of nations as long as its citizens tolerate one another irrespective of ethno-religious differences.

General Buratai stated this over the weekend in Kaduna while recieving an Award of Recognition from the Authentic Daily News publication with the theme of the event being, "Religion as a Tool for Peace and

National Unity". 

General Buratai who was represented by a former General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army, Retired Major General Bulama Biu who was also among the Awardees said, the theme 9f the event is both a timely reminder and an urgent call to action. 

According to him, in the hands of the wise, faith becomes a bridge that spans rivers of misunderstanding; a balm that soothes ancient wounds, teaching us that beyond creed and confession, our common humanity binds us more strongly than any differences could ever divide.

"No nation can rise on the foundations of suspicion and discord. It is only when our pulpits, our altars, and our mosques become fountains of tolerance, of respect, and of compassion, that Nigeria will truly step into the greatness she

deserves. These, we must work to achieve by every means available including but not limited to accommodating one another in true brotherhood"

To the younger generation, he called on them to remember that nations are not built by wishful thinking, but by the daily, patient sowing of seeds of understanding, tolerance, and selfless service, while urging them to eschew things that seek to undermine the development of the society.

"You are indeed leaders of tomorrow. May the light of peace forever guide your steps as we build a united and prosperous Nigeria. This award 'The Authentic Award of Recognition Year 2024' is not merely a plaque or a title, it is a silent testament to a journey travelled with discipline, with devotion, and with an unshaken faith in Nigeria’s promise"

General Buratai appreciated the organisers for choosing a theme that is quite contemporary and a critical tool in the struggles for prosperity.

The Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Joseph Hayab commended General Buratai for exemplary military leadership, citing the handling of the banned religious group from kaduna state crisis with maturity while in active service.