MLAILPKC And UNDP Graduate Participants of Leadership and National Cohesion Course in Abuja—The former Chief of Army Staff, HE Amb Lt Gen Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has emphasized the need for collective and effective leadership to foster national cohesion in a diverse and multicultural society like Nigeria. Buratai made this statement during the graduation ceremony of the one-week Leadership and National Cohesion Course held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), Asokoro, Abuja.
The course was organized by the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
As the Special Guest of Honour, Lt Gen Buratai stressed the importance of leadership virtues such as integrity, honesty, and patriotism in building a united nation. Addressing the participants, he said, “You are ambassadors of hope, beacons of positive change, and champions of national cohesion. The contemporary society requires quality leaders equipped with knowledge and competencies to navigate complex challenges, bridge divides, and inspire collective action.”
Highlighting the essence of the training, Buratai noted that national cohesion is not merely a concept but a necessity for peace, development, and unity in multicultural nations. He encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the training to enhance leadership capacity and drive positive change in their communities and organizations.
In his remarks, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, Major General Ademola Adedoja, expressed optimism about the successful realization of the course objectives. He applauded the participants’ dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment throughout the program, stating that they are now better positioned to understand the vital connection between leadership and national cohesion.
“This graduation is a testament to the Centre’s commitment to training competent leaders, particularly in peace support operations, in line with United Nations standards,” Adedoja added.
The Commandant also extended his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, for his unwavering support in ensuring the smooth conduct of the Centre’s activities throughout 2024. He acknowledged the collaboration with UNDP and the government of Japan, which, he noted, has significantly contributed to human capacity development. Adedoja assured that this partnership would be sustained and further enhanced in the coming year.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of certificates to participants by the Special Guest of Honour and the exchange of souvenirs with dignitaries.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including former Chief of Policy and Plans, Lt Gen LO Adeosun (Rtd); former GOC 7 Division, Maj Gen Bulama Biu (Rtd); DG NARC, Maj Gen GA Wahab (Rtd); Deputy Chief of Training Army, Maj Gen Etsu-Ndagi; representatives from the Embassy of Japan, and UNDP officials, among others.
