Impacting Knowledge, Building Bridges and Bolstering Security: Tukur Buratai Research Centre Hosts Leadership Retreat For Traditional Rulers

Impacting Knowledge, Building Bridges and Bolstering Security: Tukur Buratai Research Centre Hosts Leadership Retreat For Traditional Rulers

In the spirit of the profound words of the late Kofi Annan, who once declared, “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress in every society and every family,” the Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) organized a transformative five-day seminar and retreat for traditional rulers. The event, themed “Traditional Institutions and Contemporary Security Challenges in Nigeria,” was held from May 20–25, 2024, at the scenic Fifth Chukker Polo Club and Resort, located on the outskirts of Kaduna along the Kaduna-Jos Road in Katabu.

The seminar was meticulously designed to empower traditional leaders, particularly those from the Southwest geopolitical zone, with a focus on Osun State, collectively referred to as “Group 12.” The initiative underscores the pivotal role these leaders play in promoting peace, security, and harmonious relationships within their domains. His Royal Highness, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, Emir of Zazzau, graced the event as the Special Guest of Honour, presenting the Keynote Address and formally declaring the historic and maiden retreat open.
Throughout the seminar, the participants engaged in a series of intellectually stimulating activities. Esteemed intellectuals, academicians, seasoned security experts, and senior retired military officers delivered insightful paper presentations.

Among the distinguished speakers were Professor Abdullahi Musa Ashafa, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies at Kaduna State University, and Lieutenant General LO Adeosun (rtd) CFR, former Chief of Policy and Plans (Army). A notable highlight also was an interactive session that facilitated open dialogue and the exchange of ideas among participants.

A significant feature of the event was the presentation of a scholarly book titled “Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai and the Modernization of the Nigerian Army 2015 – 2021” authored by Associate Professor Husseini Jibrin, Head of the Department of History and War Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. It was reviewed by Dr. Shu’aibu Shehu, Director General of Arewa House, Kaduna, and was formally presented by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Zubair Jibril Maigwari II, CFR, the Ameer of Birnin Gwari.

The seminar participants also had the opportunity to visit key locations, including the Jaji military cantonment and the famous Emir of Zazzau’s palace in Zaria. These visits provided a practical glimpse into the operational aspects of security and traditional leadership.

On the fourth day, a health talk and medical outreach were organized by the Tukur and Tukur Foundation, led by Colonel Haruna Zaria (rtd). Ms. Damisola Matti-Balogun of Head2Feet Wellness and Dr. Shaba Muhammad of the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, addressed critical health issues, emphasizing the importance of well-being.

The seminar concluded with a grand ceremony featuring the presentation of certificates of attendance to the participants by the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the TBRC, Ambassador Lieutenant General TY Buratai (rtd) CFR, which was followed by a tour of notable interesting sites in the city of Kaduna.

The evening was crowned with a vibrant dinner night, showcasing pleasant performances by the Kaduna State Cultural Dance Troupe, Makadan Sarkin Zazau, and the renowned Fati Niger, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the country.

The event was graced by seasoned senior military officers (both serving and retired), Doctoral Degree Candidates, security experts, members of the academia and intelligentsia from various parts of the country, further emphasizing the importance and impact of this significant gathering.

By engaging traditional rulers and other stakeholders in these critical conversations, the TBRC has indeed highlighted the essential roles traditional leaders play in fostering a peaceful, secure, informed, and cohesive nation.

For me, coordinating the activities of this successful seminar and retreat was both an honour and a deeply enriching experience, reflecting the immense value of empowering traditional institutions in contemporary society.