Abuja: The Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s policies and counter the propaganda of terrorists and bandits. Buratai made the call during his remarks at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum on Tuesday in Abuja. The forum, with the theme ‘Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security,’ was organised by VON with support from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Buratai emphasized the importance of citizens’ engagement and national security, noting that this area has not been formalized over the years. He highlighted how Sweden’s coordinated activities enhanced citizens’ engagement, leading to a national force and the creation of the Navy Seal known today. Buratai remarked, “Citizens engagement is a force multiplier, be it intelligence or cyber activities that affect our nation’s strategic assets and installations. It is important to engage the citizens, especially vibrant youths who are into cybersecurity.”
He further stated that engaging citizens is crucial in dispelling negative information and countering damaging propaganda by terrorists and bandits, which will ultimately aid in national security. Buratai urged citizens to support government policies to counter bandits’ and terrorists’ propaganda, emphasizing that these groups are active in media and social media spaces. “It is good to bring them down, deal with them responsibly so that they will understand that the whole nation is against banditry and terrorism,” Buratai said.
The retired general commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a “true renewed hope agenda under renewed hope administration.” Buratai explained that, unlike previous administrations, the Tinubu-led government has introduced policies with long-term effects for the country’s betterment. He stated, “Renewed Hope Agenda is fundamental. It is not like a palliative approach. This is a complete departure. And we hope that as time goes on, the impact will be felt and Nigeria will be much better.”
Buratai concluded by stressing the need for a better environment for economic activities to thrive and for societal growth. He congratulated the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace, for organizing the forum.