Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Lieutenant General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor, a former United Nations Military Adviser and one of Nigeria’s most distinguished military officers.
Obiakor, who hailed from Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, died on May 27, 2026, after a brief illness.
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In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo described the late military officer as an exemplary leader whose outstanding service to Nigeria and the international community brought honour and pride to Anambra State.
Born on February 18, 1951, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Obiakor began his military career after gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1971 as a member of the 10th Regular Course. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Artillery Corps in 1973.
During his military career, Obiakor held several strategic appointments, serving at regimental, brigade and divisional levels. He was General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army and later Chief of Administration at Army Headquarters.
Beyond Nigeria, Obiakor earned international recognition through his service with the United Nations. He served as Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and, in 2008, became the first African appointed as United Nations Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations in New York.
He retired from the Nigerian Army in 2011 after nearly four decades of service.
Soludo described the late general as a patriot, disciplined leader and global ambassador for peace whose contributions to security and peacekeeping transcended national boundaries.
The governor said Anambra State had lost a rare gem, visionary leader and source of inspiration, noting that Obiakor’s legacy of service, leadership and excellence would continue to inspire future generations.
He extended his condolences to the Obiakor family, the Nigerian Army and all those affected by the loss, while praying for the peaceful repose of the late general’s soul.
