by George Ozalla
Air Vice Marshal Osita Chukwunedu Obierika was laid to rest today at his country home in Enugu‑Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area, in a ceremony that drew neighbours, friends and dignitaries from across the country and beyond.
Former Lawmaker, Honorable Ferdinand Nwankwo, popularly called Onye Ndozi led a large entourage to the pay condolence visit to the late Obierika family. Nwankwo prayed for the late fine officer and the family, recalling Obierika as an accomplished elder statesman, a mentor to many and a proud son of Enugu‑Ukwu whose achievements brought honour to the town and Nigeria. The sound of drums and music continued around him as he spoke, blending with the crowd’s energy and the town’s sense of loss.
Former governor Peter Obi also visited to console the family, while Professor Stella Okunna was among the sympahizers, underscoring the breadth of Obierika’s influence beyond the military. Neighbours and friends shared memories, offered prayers, and embraced one another in quiet support.
Obierika joined the Nigerian Air Force as part of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s Regular Course 13 and rose to the rank of Air Vice Marshal. He served as Air Officer Commanding Training Command in Kaduna, overseeing the development of Air Force personnel, and as Directing Staff at the National Defence College in Abuja, mentoring senior officers and civil servants on national security, strategy and defence policy. An accomplished pilot with over 21,000 flying hours on training and combat aircraft, he also represented Nigeria at international security workshops and conferences.
Even after retiring in 2008, Obierika remained engaged in national discourse, delivering lectures on security sector reform and the intersection of technology and defence. His life was marked by leadership, mentorship, and devotion to both his country and his hometown.
