₦airaland Forum

Buratai Pays Tribute to Ihejirika at 70, Hails Mentorship and Legacy of Leadership


Former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s immediate past Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has paid a glowing tribute to his predecessor, Lt. Gen. OA Ihejirika, as the retired General marks his 70th birthday.


In a heartfelt message released in Abuja on Friday, Buratai described Ihejirika as not only a distinguished soldier and statesman, but also a commander, mentor, and “architect of leadership” whose influence shaped a generation of senior military officers.


Buratai recalled that his professional rise within the Nigerian Army was significantly moulded under Ihejirika’s command, citing key appointments that defined his career trajectory.


According to him, the trust reposed in him through early command responsibilities, including his first command posting at Headquarters 2 Brigade and later as Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, laid a solid foundation for his future leadership roles.


“These opportunities were not mere appointments; they were strategic investments in leadership,” Buratai noted, adding that such exposure prepared him for higher national responsibilities.



He further acknowledged that the mentorship and professional grounding he received under Ihejirika’s leadership were instrumental in his eventual appointment as Chief of Army Staff and later as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.


Buratai praised Ihejirika’s command philosophy, describing it as professional, pragmatic, and mission-driven. He said the former Army Chief led by example, combining firm strategic direction with a clear blueprint for excellence that continues to influence military leadership practices.

“At seventy, General Ihejirika has earned the right to reflect on a legacy secured,” Buratai stated, praying for good health, peace, and enduring joy for the retired General as he enters a new decade.


He concluded by expressing profound gratitude for the leadership, mentorship, and lasting example Ihejirika has provided over the years.


The tribute was signed by Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, who described himself as a grateful mentee and successor, underscoring the enduring bonds of mentorship within the Nigerian Army’s top leadership.

Ihejirika the best chief of staff Nigeria has ever produced

Ihejirika; the man that would've finished Boko Haram, if he had not been forced into early retirement.

This man Ihejirika almost wiped out Boko haram from the surface of the earth ..
He didn't take prisoners , he sent them to there virgins.

Man like Ihejirika

E show boko boys pepper

They petitioned him to International Criminal Court for Genocide against Bokoharam and Jonathan discharged him for political patronage and elections.

IsraeliAIRFORCE:
They petitioned him to International Criminal Court for Genocide against Bokoharam and Jonathan discharged him for political patronage and elections.

I will keep saying it that GEJ is the foundational cause of Nigeria's problems today. His selfish political ambition made him take foolish decisions and when it was the actual time to become selfish and proud of his selfishness, he chickened out due to cowardice. I still hate and blame him for giving APC the chance to destroy Nigeria.

Imindmybusiness:
I will keep saying it that GEJ is the foundational cause of Nigeria's problems today. His selfish political ambition made him take foolish decisions and when it was the actual time to become selfish and proud of his selfishness, he chickened out due to cowardice. I still hate and blame him for giving APC the chance to destroy Nigeria.

Abeg make I hear word joor.
No be una vote am out after listening to agbado propaganda that year.

Baba clearly asked Nigerians to choose between going forward ⏩ or going backward.

And now you are still blaming him for your decision.

Mscheeew!