A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has dismissed claims on social media that the country is a potential failed state.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, titled “Nigeria: An Unbreakable Nation Rising Through Challenges,” Buratai described such assertions as misguided and out of touch with the country’s historical resilience.
He argued that projections such as the 2011 CSAT assessment fail to recognise recent leadership reforms and the determination of Nigerians to overcome adversity.
He said Nigeria has repeatedly survived political instability, economic shocks and security threats that would have overwhelmed many nations.
“Nigerian leaders have repeatedly steered the nation from the brink. Today, a new generation of patriotic leaders—in government, private sector, civil society, and technology—is rising.
“They are more connected, more accountable to a vibrant citizenry, and deeply committed to national unity. The idea that such a leadership corps would allow national collapse is inconceivable.
“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,” Buratai wrote.
The former Army chief commended past leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Mohammed and Olusegun Obasanjo, for guiding the country through defining periods, adding that today’s leaders are even more accountable and responsive to citizens.
While acknowledging the nation’s current economic difficulties, Buratai cautioned against evaluating Nigeria solely through the lens of present challenges, describing such assessments as “shortsighted.”
He noted that Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy with growing global influence in telecommunications, fintech, entertainment and human capital development.
On insecurity, Buratai described the situation as a “renewal phase,” insisting that Boko Haram has been significantly degraded compared to its most dangerous years.
He cited ongoing national projects—including railway modernisation, major road infrastructure, airport upgrades and the Dangote refinery- as indicators of a country actively building toward a stronger future.
Buratai also criticised Western organisations for what he termed “doomsday projections,” urging international partners to focus on investment, technology transfer and creating fairer global trade systems.
He advised Nigerian leaders to deepen economic diversification, adopt decentralised security strategies and strengthen civic patriotism.
Buratai further encouraged African nations to speed up regional integration under the AfCFTA and push for a more equitable global financial system.
“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,” he said.
