Who Is Ty Danjuma In Nigeria?

If you are familiar with Nigeria's political landscape, then you must have heard about General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma. He is a highly respected and influential figure in Nigeria's political and business circles. In this article, we will explore the life, career, and achievements of Ty Danjuma, as he is popularly known.

Early Life and Education

General Danjuma was born on December 9, 1938, in Takum, a small town in present-day Taraba State, Nigeria. He is the son of Kuru Danjuma and Rufkatu Asibi. At the age of 20, he joined the Nigerian army as an officer cadet. He underwent training at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1960.

Danjuma received further training at the British Army School of Infantry in Warminster, England. He also attended the Royal College of Defence Studies in London. Danjuma is highly educated and holds several honorary degrees from prestigious universities, including the University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University, and Obafemi Awolowo University.

Military Career

Danjuma had a successful military career and rose to the rank of a General. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria's civil war, which lasted from 1967 to 1970. He was the commanding officer of the 1st Infantry Division during the war and led successful campaigns in the southeast region of Nigeria.

In 1975, Danjuma was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff by General Murtala Mohammed. He served in this position for three years and was instrumental in modernizing the Nigerian army. Danjuma retired from the military in 1979 but remained an influential figure in Nigeria's political landscape.

Business Career

After retiring from the military, Danjuma ventured into business and became one of Nigeria's most successful businessmen. He founded several companies, including NAL Merchant Bank, one of Nigeria's first indigenous banks. He also served as the chairman of several companies, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

Philanthropy

Danjuma is also known for his philanthropic activities. He has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. The TY Danjuma Foundation, which he founded in 2008, is one of the largest charitable organizations in Nigeria. The foundation focuses on providing support to vulnerable groups in society, including women, children, and the elderly.

Political Involvement

Danjuma has been actively involved in Nigeria's political landscape, both as a military officer and a businessman. He played a key role in the transition from military to civilian rule in Nigeria. In 1999, he was appointed as the Minister of Defence by President Olusegun Obasanjo. He served in this position for three years and was later appointed as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

Controversies

Like most influential figures, Danjuma has also been the subject of controversies. In 2018, he was accused of land grabbing by the Tiv community in Taraba State. The community claimed that Danjuma had forcefully taken over their land and was using it for his personal gain. Danjuma denied the allegations and said that he had acquired the land legally.

Final Thoughts

General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma is a highly respected and influential figure in Nigeria. He had a successful military career and played a key role in Nigeria's civil war. He also ventured into business and became one of Nigeria's most successful businessmen. Danjuma is known for his philanthropic activities and has donated millions of dollars to various causes. Although he has been the subject of controversies, his contributions to Nigeria's development cannot be ignored.