Former Army Chief honoured in Umuahia as Abia Governor credits him with state's improved security; President praises service during 'turbulent' insurgency years
President Bola Tinubu has joined a chorus of national figures celebrating former Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (retd.) on his 70th birthday, describing the retired general as a "courageous leader" who served Nigeria during one of its most challenging periods.
The anniversary ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, Abia State, drew dignitaries from across the country, including Governor Alex Otti, Works Minister Dave Umahi, and representatives of the presidency, all paying tribute to Ihejirika's military legacy and ongoing contributions to national security .
'He Proved Himself'
Represented by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Kingsley Ude, Tinubu noted that Ihejirika served as army chief during a "turbulent period in the war against insurgency and proved himself."
The president highlighted a significant historical fact: Ihejirika was the last service chief of South-East extraction before the current administration came into office. This observation underscored Tinubu's commitment to inclusive security leadership.
"We appreciate that for the nation to surmount its security challenges, it behoves on the leadership to engage the best hands from every part of the country," the president said .
Tinubu prayed for God's continued blessings on the retired general, expressing hope that Nigeria would "continue to draw from his fountain of experience and knowledge, especially in the fight against insecurity."
'He Has Surpassed Expectations'
Abia State Governor Alex Otti used the occasion to publicly credit Ihejirika with significant improvements in the state's security architecture. The former army chief currently chairs the Abia State Security Council—an appointment Otti said was made strictly "on merit."
"He's doing the job very well. If you are in doubt, go and check what has happened in this state in the last 32 months. Compare it with what happened elsewhere," Otti declared .
The governor announced that the state government would celebrate Ihejirika's milestone by inaugurating several road projects, linking the general's personal achievement to broader development goals .
'A Perfect Gentleman'
Works Minister Dave Umahi, who has maintained a longstanding relationship with the celebrant, described Ihejirika as both a family friend and a "perfect gentleman." He commended the retired general's contributions to Nigeria and urged continued support for both Governor Otti and President Tinubu .
The occasion also drew goodwill messages from key military figures, including Defence Minister Christopher Musa, former Chief of Defence Staff Lucky Irabor, and former Chief of Army Staff Muhammad Dambazua .
The Man Behind the Uniform
In his response, Ihejirika expressed gratitude to God for his life and reflected on the journey that led him to military service. The retired general served as Chief of Army Staff under former President Goodluck Jonathan from September 8, 2010, until January 2014 .
His tenure coincided with the early escalation of Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria, a period that tested the military's capabilities and command structures. While his service was later scrutinized—in 2015, the Muhammadu Buhari administration included him among officers investigated over arms procurement deals amounting to N185.8 billion and $685 million—Saturday's celebration focused squarely on his contributions and legacy .
For the people of Abia and the wider South-East, Ihejirika's 70th birthday served as an occasion to honour not just a retired general, but a symbol of the region's capacity to contribute to national security at the highest levels—a message Tinubu's presence reinforced.
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