Gov Otti to Lead Dignitaries at 60th Memorial of Late General Aguiyi-Ironsi

ABIA – Governor Alex Otti will tomorrow, July 29, 2026, join the family of the late General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi and other eminent Nigerians to commemorate the 60th Memorial Anniversary of Nigeria’s first military Head of State.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

Prince Kanu said the Aguiyi-Ironsi family has lined up a number of activities for the memorial, beginning with the laying of wreaths at the late General’s tomb at the Aguiyi-Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia.

He stated that the programme will also feature a reception at the International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, where dignitaries from across the country will pay glowing tributes to the late military leader through speeches and goodwill messages.

According to the Commissioner, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will attend as the Special Guest of Honour, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo will serve as the Guest of Honour. Governor Alex Otti will be the Chief Host, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, will serve as the Royal Father of the Day.

Prince Kanu noted that the memorial ceremony is expected to attract top government officials, traditional rulers, military officers, diplomats, and other distinguished personalities in honour of the late General Aguiyi-Ironsi, whose service and sacrifice remain a significant part of Nigeria’s history.