The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Government and people of Anambra State, alongside dignitaries from across the nation, paid their final respects to the late Lieutenant General Chikaidibia Isaac Obiakor (Rtd) on 9 October 2026 at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Anambra State.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni,Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 82 Division Nigerian Army said the solemn ceremonies followed a Service of Songs held on 8 October 2026 at his country home, culminating in his burial with full military honors.
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Delivering an oration on the distinguished contributions of the late General, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W Shaibu, represented at the event by Major General TE Gagariga, described General Obiakor as a pleasant, confident, and extraordinary officer whose personality earned him respect and admiration across the Armed Forces. He was hailed as an excellent ambassador of Nigeria, whose thoughtfulness, diplomacy, and maturity were consistently evident.
General Shaibu further emphasized that General Obiakor was professionally sound, resourceful, result-oriented, and competent. He described him as articulate, highly analytical, and creative, attributes which according to the COAS, fostered a remarkable work ethic that permeated Gen Obiakor’s commands.
He highlighted some of his appointments during service to include Commander 34 Artillery Brigade, Commander 32 Field Artillery Brigade, Directing Staff at the National War College, Deputy Commandant Headquarters Nigeria Corps of Artillery and School, Chief of Administration Army, Commander Headquarters Nigeria Corps of Artillery, and General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army. His passing, the COAS noted, is a profound loss to his family, the Nigerian Army, and the nation in general.
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In his tribute, the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, described General Obiakor as a proud son of Anambra and a role model for the Igbo nation. He urged youths to emulate his example by joining the Armed Forces as a noble call to service.
Earlier, during the Service of Songs, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General OA Fadairo, commiserated with the family on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff and the Nigerian Army. He described the late senior officer as a gallant, disciplined, and accomplished General whose legacy will remain indelible.
The ceremonies were attended by senior military officers, serving and retired, as well as many other dignitaries across all sectors. Notable attendees included the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof Charles Soludo, representatives of the Honourable Minister of Defence and the Chief of Army Staff, Major General C Ofoche ( Rtd) and Major General TE Gagariga respectively; former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OA Ihejirika (Rtd), Corps Commander Artillery, Major General JO Adeyemo; Major Gen OG Onubogu,
GOC 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, Major General OA Fadairo; and Director General NYSC, Brigadier General OO Nafiu, among other distinguished personalities.
Military traditions were duly observed, including the presentation of the National Flag and military accoutrements to the Next of Kin, as well as the symbolic presentation of the condolence letter, among other ceremonial parades.
The burial of Lieutenant General CI Obiakor reinforced the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to honouring its heroes, strengthening civil-military relations, and inspiring future generations.
