Buratai tasks inter-faith organisations, Traditional Rulers on peace, cohesion
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has charged the National Inter-Faith and Religious Organisation for Peace (NIFROP) to soundly preach and aggressively promote peace, unity and mutual cohesion among Nigerians of diverse religious and ethnic affiliations.
Buratai, made the appeal to the executive officials of the organisation, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Army Headquarters (AH) Conference Room, on Thursday.
Buratai, who was represented by the Army’s Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP), Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun, noted that religion is the most perfect and veritable platform to unite and bring Nigerians of various classes and backgrounds together.
Thus, NIFROP and other religious leaders should endeavour to preach messages of oneness, love, and togetherness, instead of gospels that cause division and animosity among diverse Nigerians.
The COAS, commended the inter-faith organisation’s efforts in using their religious minds to reach out to Almighty God, asking him to intercede in the country’s affairs.
He urged them, together with other Christian and Islamic leaders to continue supplicating peace and unity for the country, saying they should also use their religious platforms to educate Nigerians on the essence and virtues of peace, love, compassion and true brotherhood among themselves.
Earlier in a remark, Bishop Sunday Garba Yayi, thanked God for the great leadership ability and wisdom he endowed the Army Chief, which has enabled him to keep the NA intact, while also protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.
The Bishop, who is the National Coordinator of the association, stressed that without peace even they the clergymen cannot preach the gospel.
He disclosed that NIFROP is an organisation that believes in the co-existence of the human race, despite the religious differences.
He noted that God put Nigerians, both Muslims, Christians and other worshippers in this country, because he expects us to co-exist together and live in peace, rather than antagonizing and killing one another.
By PRNigeria
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Insecurity: Bwari Emir applauds Army, bestows title on Buratai
The Emir of Bwari, Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijokoro (II), has applauded the officers and men of the Nigerian Army (NA) for efficiently and squarely dealing with emerging security challenges affecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and across the country.
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The Emir, gave the commendation when he led other eminent traditional title holders of his emirate to pay a courtesy visit on the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai.
At the COAS’ conference room, Alh. Ijakoro, said the relative peace and atmosphere of calmness enjoyed in Abuja, and its environs, can be attributed to the doggedness, foresight and commitment of NA, under the leadership of Lt. Gen Buratai.
“I heartily convey to you the warm greetings of my good people of Bwari emirate. I equally on their behalf, wish to sincerely appreciate you, and the entire Nigerian Army for your tireless commitment and sacrifice in keeping the country safe and peaceful.
“This is amidst varying security challenges ranging from insurgency, banditry and kidnapping, among others,” said the paramount traditional leader.
The Sarkin Bwari, disclosed that virtually all the Army Barracks and many other important institutions in the FCT are located in his domain.
He urged the COAS and his officers to remain unrelenting in their fight against insurgents and other criminal elements holding the country to ransom.
The Emir, thereafter bestowed the traditional title of “Birman Bwari” which translates to “The Courageous Defender of Bwari” emirate to Lt. Gen. Buratai, in recognition of his remarkable achievements as the Army Chief, especially in the fight against terrorism in North-East.
Amidst thunderous applause, Alh. Ijakoro, presented a sword of honour, copy of the Holy Qur’an and appointment letter to the COAS.
While accepting the chieftancy title, Buratai, expressed joy over the special honour, reiterating his commitment to working with other security agencies to continue keeping the nation’s capital safe.
Buratai, also assured the Emir that the officers and men of the Army resident at Bwari will cooperate and work with him, disclosing that a mass housing project for officers and soldiers of NA will soon be inaugurated at the area council.
The COAS, noted that since Bwari is a gateway into the city of Abuja, there is need for the Emir and members of his emirate council to collaborate with the Army to flush out kidnappers and bandits, terrorizing the Kaduna-Abuja highway.
“I want to assure you that the Nigerian Army is ready and willing to work with traditional institutions in the FCT.
“Also, let me inform you that we shall soon extend some of our military operations such as Operation Positive Identification, and Ayem Apkatuma to Abuja,” Buratai said.
He consoled the Sarki over the demise of his late father, calling on him to emulate the exemplary leadership qualities exhibited by the late Emir and also lead with the fear of God.
The Chief Imam of Bwari, Sheikh Idris Ibrahim, offered supplications for the divine protection and guidance for COAS and the entire NA.
By PRNigeria
