Buratai Dismisses Claims Nigeria On Brink Of Collapse

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.) has dismissed assertions that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse, describing such claims as misguided and blind to the country’s historic resilience and capacity to survive crises.

Buratai, in a statement titled “Nigeria: An Unbreakable Nation Rising Through Challenges,” argued that gloomy projections, such as the 2011 CSAT assessment, failed to consider recent leadership reforms and the steadfast determination of Nigerians.

He stressed that despite political upheavals, economic shocks, and persistent security threats, Nigeria has consistently weathered storms that could have broken many nations.

“From independence to date, our leaders, civilian and military, have steered this country out of storms many nations would not survive. Nigeria cannot and will not fail,” he said.

Buratai also praised past national leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Yakubu Gowon, and Murtala Mohammed, for guiding the country through defining moments, adding that today’s leadership is even more accountable and responsive to citizens.

While acknowledging current economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, Buratai warned that judging Nigeria solely through the lens of present challenges is “shortsighted.”

According to him, the nation remains Africa’s largest economy with growing influence in telecommunications, fintech, entertainment, and human capital development.

On insecurity, the former army chief described ongoing concerns as part of a “renewal phase,” noting that Boko Haram has been substantially degraded compared to its peak years.

He pointed to major national projects such as railway modernisation, strategic road construction, airport upgrades, and the Dangote Refinery as proof that Nigeria is actively investing in its future.

Buratai further criticised Western institutions for pushing “doomsday projections” and urged global partners to prioritise investments, technology transfer, and fairer trade systems instead.

He advised Nigerian leaders to deepen economic diversification, adopt decentralised security strategies, and strengthen civic patriotism.

He also called on African nations to accelerate regional integration under the AfCFTA and push for a more equitable global financial order.

“Nigeria’s destiny lies in the hands of Nigerians, a people blessed with abundant resources and an unbreakable spirit. We will not fail. We are rising,” Buratai assured.