Buratai Urges Public Support Against Terrorist Propaganda
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd), has called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s policies and actively counter the propaganda efforts of terrorists and bandits through citizen engagement.
Speaking at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum in Abuja on Tuesday, Buratai emphasized the role of national unity and public participation in addressing security threats. The event, themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security”, was organised by VON in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
“Citizen engagement is a force multiplier—whether in intelligence gathering or cyber activities targeting national assets,” Buratai said. “Our vibrant youths, especially those skilled in cybersecurity, should be mobilised to dispel disinformation and confront extremist narratives online.”
He warned that terrorists and bandits are exploiting media and social media platforms to spread fear and falsehoods, and urged Nigerians to take an active role in challenging these narratives.
“It’s critical to show these groups that the entire nation stands united against terrorism and banditry,” he added.
Buratai also praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a strategic shift from temporary relief measures to sustainable national development.
“This is not just a palliative-based approach. The Renewed Hope Agenda lays down long-term policy foundations that will transform Nigeria’s economy and security landscape,” he stated.
He cited global examples, including Sweden’s model of citizen engagement, which contributed to the formation of elite national defense forces, as a lesson Nigeria can adopt.
Commending the organisers of the forum, Buratai said: “We need forums like this to promote public awareness and national cohesion. I commend the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace, for this timely initiative.”
The forum brought together stakeholders from the media, security, and civic sectors to explore how public cooperation can enhance national security efforts.
