Buratai Links Aminu Kano’s Ideals to West Africa’s Integration Agenda

Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), on Friday drew parallels between the ideals of late nationalist Aminu Kano and ongoing efforts toward regional integration in West Africa.





Buratai made the remarks while chairing the 2026 edition of the annual symposium held in honour of Aminu Kano in Kano, where he emphasised that the late political icon’s vision remains relevant to contemporary governance and regional cooperation.





Describing Aminu Kano as “a movement rather than a man,” Buratai said his lifelong advocacy for social justice, education, and the empowerment of the talakawa provides a moral framework for leadership in Nigeria and beyond.





“He understood that national progress cannot exist in isolation from regional stability,” Buratai said, noting that many of the ideas championed by Aminu Kano align with the founding principles of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).





The former ambassador highlighted the economic implications of weak regional integration, pointing to low intra-African trade and persistent barriers to cross-border commerce.




According to him, Nigeria’s growth is closely tied to that of neighbouring countries, calling for policies that promote trade, infrastructure development, and ease of movement within the subregion.




“A prosperous West Africa is in Nigeria’s best interest,” he stated.



Buratai also urged political leaders to prioritise people-centred governance, stressing that leadership should be measured by its impact on the most vulnerable.





He further called on young people to embrace regional identity and opportunities, encouraging them to engage in cross-border trade, education, and cultural exchange.



The event, held at Mambayya House, attracted academics, political leaders, and students, and featured discussions on security, democracy, and economic cooperation in West Africa.




Buratai declared the symposium open with a call for renewed commitment to peace, integration, and inclusive development across the region.