NEWS
President Bola Tinubu, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Gov. Alex Otti to Lead 60th Memorial Anniversary of Aguiyi-Ironsi in Umuahia
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other distinguished Nigerians are expected in Umuahia on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, for the 60th memorial anniversary of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi.
The event will bring together top government officials, traditional rulers, dignitaries and members of the Aguiyi-Ironsi family in a solemn commemoration of the late military leader’s life, legacy and contributions to Nigeria’s history.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made this known on Tuesday, July, 28, 2026, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR.
According to the commissioner, the memorial programme will begin with a wreath-laying ceremony at Aguiyi-Ironsi’s tomb located at the Aguiyi-Ironsi Conference Centre in Umuahia. The ceremony will be followed by a reception at the International Conference Centre (ICC), where tributes, goodwill messages and speeches will be delivered in honour of the late Head of State.
Prince Kanu disclosed that President Bola Tinubu will attend the event as the Special Guest of Honour, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo will serve as the Guest of Honour.
He further announced that the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, will preside over the occasion as the Royal Father of the Day, while Governor Alex Otti will serve as the Chief Host.
The 60th memorial anniversary is expected to attract a distinguished gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, statesmen and other eminent Nigerians as they pay tribute to one of the country’s most significant military and politi
cal figures.