Nigerian Army University loses lecturer

Brig. Gen. Ali Williams Butu (retd), a lecturer at Nigerian Army University in Biu, Borno State, passed away.

Butu was an Associate Professor of Geography and Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at the university until his death. He was originally from Taraba State’s Takum Local Government Area.

The retired Army General, who died in a private hospital in Abuja last Saturday following a brief illness at the age of 58, will be buried on Saturday, April 27 at Butu village, Km 5, Takum-Kashimbilla Road, Takum Local Government Area, Taraba.

Dr. Agbu Kefas, Taraba State Governor, described Butu’s death as startling and heartbreaking, and said it was a big loss for the state and the nation.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Emmanuel Bello, the governor said Butu died at a time when the state and the entire nation needed his wisdom and leadership most.

Kefas said, “His courage, penchant for details, and focused dedication was not lost on anyone who came in contact with him while his commanding height and pleasant personality had such a magnetic pull on people.

“The late Butu’s expertise was well sought out around the country by state governments and the rest of the world on a consultancy basis.

“Despite General Butu’s accomplishments, he lived an exemplary life and was modest throughout his earthly existence. The nation and indeed the world have lost an intellectual, a forthright personality and an icon for the planet conservation causes.”

Born in 1965, Butu was an accomplished Nigerian Army officer, who retired from the force late last year, but continued to serve the military as a respected lecturer at the Army University, Biu in Borno State.

The late Butu is the author of several books ranging from administration to environmental impact assessments matters. He was a well-sought-after resource person who also extended his leadership skills to community services.