The Nigerian Army and Anambra State Government held a funeral ceremony on October 9, 2026, to pay their final respects to retired Lieutenant General Chikaidibia Isaac Obiakor. Obiakor was the first African to serve as the United Nations Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations. The ceremony, which took place at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State, was attended by senior military officers, government officials, family members, and other dignitaries. Obiakor was described as an accomplished officer whose contributions to Nigeria and international peace efforts would remain indelible.
A Service of Songs was held on October 8, 2026, at Obiakor's country home, preceding the burial ceremony. During the service, Major General T.E. Gagariga, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, eulogized Obiakor as an exceptional officer whose personality, professionalism, and leadership earned him respect across the Armed Forces. The Chief of Army Staff praised Obiakor's professional competence, analytical ability, and commitment to achieving results, noting that these qualities shaped his leadership and influenced the commands under his supervision.
Obiakor had a distinguished military career, holding several strategic appointments, including Commander of 34 Artillery Brigade, Commander of 32 Field Artillery Brigade, and Directing Staff at the National War College. He also served as Deputy Commandant of the Headquarters Nigeria Corps of Artillery and School, Chief of Administration, Nigerian Army, and General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army. The Chief of Army Staff described Obiakor's death as a profound loss to his family, the Nigerian Army, and the nation.
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, also paid tribute to Obiakor, describing him as a distinguished son of the state and a role model for younger generations. Soludo called on young people to draw inspiration from Obiakor's career and consider military service as a noble means of contributing to national development. The governor urged youths to emulate Obiakor's example by joining the Armed Forces.
The burial ceremony was attended by several notable personalities, including Governor Soludo, representatives of the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Army Staff, and former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O.A. Ihejirika. Military traditions were observed during the ceremony, including the presentation of the national flag and military accoutrements to the next of kin, as well as the symbolic presentation of a condolence letter.
The Nigerian Army stated that the ceremony reflected its commitment to honouring officers who had served the country and to preserving their legacies for future generations. Obiakor's burial marked the end of a distinguished military career that included several command and administrative appointments, as well as service in international peacekeeping efforts.
The event was a testament to Obiakor's legacy and the impact he had on the Nigerian Army and the nation. His contributions to peacekeeping efforts and his role as a role model for younger generations will be remembered for years to come.
Key points
- The Nigerian Army and Anambra State government paid their final respects to retired Lieutenant General Chikaidibia Isaac Obiakor.
- Obiakor was the first African to serve as the United Nations Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations.
- The ceremony was attended by several notable personalities, including Governor Soludo and representatives of the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Army Staff.
