On Friday, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, delivered a speech at the memorial service for late Lt.-Gen. Chikadibia Obiakor, held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka. Soludo stated that the military and other security agencies are often viewed negatively by the public, which can deter young people from pursuing a career in these fields. He emphasized the need for role models and community leaders to inspire younger generations to consider military service and other forms of national service.
Soludo highlighted the exemplary life of Lt.-Gen. Obiakor as an inspiration to younger generations. Obiakor's distinguished military career and international peacekeeping service brought honor to Nigeria, and Soludo described him as an illustrious son of Anambra. The governor noted that Obiakor's legacy serves as a testament to the positive impact one can have on their community. Soludo urged community leaders and elders to maintain close relationships with their people and serve as role models.
The memorial service was attended by family members, senior military officers, government officials, and other mourners. They gathered to celebrate Obiakor's contributions to Anambra, Nigeria, and the international community. Soludo described Obiakor as "Anambra's export to Nigeria and the world," noting his global service in promoting peace and maintaining law and order.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, expressed condolences to the Obiakor family and joined the people of Anambra and Nigeria in mourning the late officer. Oluyede was represented by Maj.-Gen. Tariweriye Gagariga, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre. He described Obiakor as a decorated veteran whose distinguished service brought honor and dignity to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The deceased's son, Mr. Nonso Obiakor, reflected on his father's life, highlighting his discipline, international peacekeeping commitment, and dedication to humanity. Soludo stressed that an individual's greatest achievement lies in the positive impact made on their immediate community. He noted that Obiakor's people were able to testify that he was a good person, and that his impact on the community is the most important legacy.
Soludo also emphasized the importance of community leaders and elders in inspiring younger generations. He encouraged them to "multitask and become the villager" as a way of motivating and inspiring young people. By doing so, they can help to promote a positive image of the military and encourage more young people to consider a career in the armed forces.
The memorial service for Lt.-Gen. Obiakor is a testament to his legacy and the impact he had on Nigeria and the international community. Soludo's speech highlights the need for positive role models and community leaders to inspire younger generations to consider military service. The event brought together people from various backgrounds to celebrate Obiakor's life and contributions.
Key points
- Soludo urges community leaders to inspire younger generations to consider military service.
- Lt.-Gen. Obiakor's legacy serves as an inspiration to younger generations.
- Negative public perceptions of the military can deter young people from joining.
