Retired Lieutenant General Chikaidibia Isaac Obiakor has been buried in Anambra State, with military chiefs and Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo reflecting on his contributions to the Nigerian Army and global peacekeeping.
The funeral was held on October 9, 2026, at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, drawing serving and former military personnel, government officials, relatives and other guests.
Obiakor made history as the first African appointed United Nations Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations, a milestone that distinguished his career beyond Nigeria’s borders.
He was accorded a full military burial following a Service of Songs at his country residence on October 8.
Speaking for the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Major General T.E. Gagariga said Obiakor’s conduct, sound judgment and ability to lead had earned him considerable regard among colleagues in the Armed Forces.
Shaibu’s tribute also highlighted the retired general’s creativity, confidence and practical approach to military assignments, describing these qualities as important features of his years in service.
The remarks were contained in a statement posted on X on Sunday by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division.
Throughout his career, Obiakor occupied senior operational, instructional and administrative roles. His appointments included General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Chief of Administration of the Nigerian Army, and commander of both 34 Artillery Brigade and 32 Field Artillery Brigade.
He also served at the National War College, held the position of Deputy Commandant at the Headquarters Nigeria Corps of Artillery and School, and later commanded the Headquarters Nigeria Corps of Artillery.
Shaibu expressed sympathy with the deceased’s relatives, describing his absence as a major blow to the Army and the wider Nigerian community.
Soludo, in his remarks, said Anambra had lost a prominent figure whose accomplishments could serve as a source of motivation for young people.
The governor encouraged youths to consider military careers, pointing to Obiakor’s record as an example of how service in the Armed Forces could provide an avenue to contribute to the country.
Earlier, Major General O.A. Fadairo, General Officer Commanding 82 Division, delivered the Army’s message of sympathy to the family during the Service of Songs. He remembered Obiakor for his courage, discipline and professional achievements.
Those present at the burial included Soludo, representatives of the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Army Staff, former Army Chief Lieutenant General O.A. Ihejirika (retd.), Corps Commander Artillery Major General J.O. Adeyemo, Major General O.G. Onubogu, Major General O.A. Fadairo and NYSC Director-General Brigadier General O.O. Nafiu.
In keeping with military funeral customs, officials handed the national flag and the late officer’s military accoutrements to his next of kin. A condolence letter was also presented.
The Nigerian Army said the farewell was an opportunity to recognise the service of personnel whose careers had contributed to the institution and the nation.
Beyond his various leadership positions in Nigeria, Obiakor’s record included international peacekeeping service that placed him among the country’s notable military figures.
