Former Nigerian Army Chiefs Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai and Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika urged greater investment in youth empowerment via literature at the second Young Adult Literature Prize in Abuja. They highlighted literature's role in fostering national reawakening and intellectual growth. The event featured awards, book donations, and calls for critical thinking among young Nigerians.
On Saturday, November 1, 2025, the second edition of the Young Adult Literature Prize (YALP) took place in Abuja, organized by the T.Y. Buratai Literary Initiative (TYBLI). The event was chaired by Lt.-Gen. O.A. Ihejirika (rtd), CFR, with Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, who served as Chief of Army Staff from 2015 to 2021, acting as chief host and TYBLI founder.
Buratai emphasized literature's importance in nation-building, stating that books and ideas are as crucial as state instruments. He reaffirmed his commitment to elevating YALP as a premier platform for literary excellence and announced TYBLI's donation of books to five schools in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State, with plans for nationwide expansion. "When the concept of this prize was first presented to me, it was a most welcome and compelling proposition," Buratai said. "A book can ignite the essential values of courage, discipline, patriotism, and compassion, the very bedrock of exemplary citizenship."
The gathering included distinguished guests, literary enthusiasts, military veterans, and young writers. Buratai presented special recognition awards to Mr. Simon Kolawole, publisher and editor-in-chief of TheCable, and Mr. Femi Oyewale, publisher of Sahara Weekly and Sahara TV, for their contributions to journalism and national development. "Gold or silver, we have none to offer you. But this award stands as a strong motivation for you to continue to prioritise the unity and development of the Nigerian nation," he added. He also thanked Hajia Hauwa Sidi Aliyu, CEO of Adams Pages Bookstore, for promoting reading among youth.
Ihejirika praised the initiative as a "vital investment in the intellectual fabric of our nation" and lauded Buratai's leadership. "During my tenure as Chief of Army Staff, Buratai stood out for his exceptional competence and leadership. What we witness today through TYBLI is a continuation of that legacy," he said. He urged youths to embrace reading and writing for transformation and reflected on national security, advising officers to remain loyal and professional. "The trust of the Nigerian people is your most powerful weapon," Ihejirika noted.
The ceremony culminated in awards for the 2025 YALP winners, with Adoo Guyuur named Grand Prize Winner for his storytelling and insight.