By Peace Udugba
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Lieutenant General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor, describing him as one of Anambra State’s most distinguished sons whose service brought honour to both the state and Nigeria.
General Obiakor died on May 27, 2026, after a brief illness.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Governor Soludo said the late military officer, who hailed from Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, distinguished himself through an illustrious career marked by exceptional leadership, discipline, and dedication to national and international peacekeeping efforts.
Born on February 18, 1951, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Obiakor began his military career after gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 10th Regular Course in 1971. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Artillery Corps in 1973.
Throughout his military service, he held several strategic positions, commanding at regimental, brigade, and divisional levels. He served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army and later as Chief of Administration at Army Headquarters.
Governor Soludo also highlighted Obiakor’s remarkable contributions on the international stage. He served as Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and, in 2008, became the first African appointed as the United Nations Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations in New York, a position that underscored his global reputation and professional excellence.
The late general retired from the Nigerian Army in 2011 after decades of distinguished service.
Describing him as a true patriot, disciplined leader, and global icon, Soludo said Anambra State had lost a rare gem, visionary leader, and source of inspiration to many.
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Obiakor family, the Nigerian Army, and all those affected by the loss, praying for the peaceful repose of the late general’s soul.
