President Bola Tinubu has described Nigeria’s first military head of state, the late General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, as an enduring symbol of unity, discipline, and selfless service six decades after his death.
The president’s message was delivered by Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (Rtd) during a 60th-anniversary memorial ceremony held in Umuahia, Abia State, on Wednesday.
Aguiyi-Ironsi, who became the first Nigerian General Officer Commanding and subsequently head of state following the January 1966 coup, was praised for prioritizing national stability during a critical period in the country’s history.
“Although his tenure was brief, he demonstrated a firm commitment to preserving national unity, restoring stability, and maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian state,” Tinubu said in his address.
‘Bought with significant sacrifice’
Also speaking at the solemn gathering, former President Olusegun Obasanjo reflected on Aguiyi-Ironsi’s legacy during a turbulent era in Nigeria’s political development.
“Sixty years after, his memory reminds us that the unity of Nigeria was bought with significant sacrifice,” Obasanjo said, calling on Nigerians to protect national cohesion and the institutional integrity of the armed forces.
Hosting the delegation, Abia State Governor Alex Otti expressed gratitude to federal authorities and elder statesmen for honoring the late general in his home state, noting that Aguiyi-Ironsi’s sacrifice continues to inspire governance in the region.
The event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including former First Lady Patience Jonathan and former Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Azubuike Ihejirika.
Add Comment