Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has said that negative public perceptions of the military and other security agencies are among the factors discouraging young people from enlisting in the armed forces.
Soludo made the remark on Friday during a memorial service for the late Lt.-Gen. Chikadibia Obiakor (rtd.) held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.
He noted that the exemplary careers of distinguished officers like Obiakor could help inspire younger generations to view military service and other forms of national service more positively.
The governor also called on community leaders and elders to stay closely connected with their people and serve as role models. “We must multitask and become the villager as a way of inspiring and motivating the younger ones,” he said.
Soludo described the late general as an illustrious son of Anambra whose distinguished military career and international peacekeeping efforts brought honour to Nigeria.
He called Obiakor “Anambra’s export to Nigeria and the world,” while stressing that an individual’s greatest achievement is the positive impact made on their immediate community.“
The impact on the community is the most important impact; his people were able to testify that he was good,” the governor added.Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Maj.-Gen. Tariweriye Gagariga, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, expressed condolences to the Obiakor family.
He described the late officer as a decorated veteran whose service brought honour and dignity to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The deceased’s son, Nonso Obiakor, also spoke, highlighting his father’s discipline, commitment to international peacekeeping, and dedication to humanity.
The memorial service drew family members, senior military officers, government officials, and other mourners who gathered to celebrate Obiakor’s contributions to Anambra, Nigeria, and the international community.