The President of GLOBE Legislators International, Chief Sam Onuigbo, has commended President Bola Tinubu for honouring Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major-Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, 60 years after his assassination.
He described the President’s recognition as a demonstration of historical consciousness and visionary leadership.
Onuigbo represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2023.
Aguiyi-Ironsi’s 60th anniversary commemoration was held recently in Umuahia, his hometown.
He and Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi were assassinated in Ibadan during the 1966 counter-coup on July 29, 2026.
In a letter to Tinubu, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, Onuigbo said the commemoration was a significant tribute to the enduring legacy of Aguiyi-Ironsi, who died in the service of the nation.
He described the late military leader as a symbol of patriotism, discipline, integrity and commitment to national unity.
“His contributions and sacrifices remain an important part of Nigeria’s political history,” Onuigbo stated.
The former lawmaker, who sponsored Nigeria’s Climate Change Act, also linked the commemoration to the recent upward review of salaries and emoluments of serving military personnel.
He said both gestures demonstrated Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare and morale of members of the Armed Forces.
“I am very elated by this gesture from Mr President, not only because the late Gen. Aguiyi-Ironsi hailed from my constituency, but also for the fact that Tinubu has continued to demonstrate committed and courageous leadership with patriotic surefootedness,” he said.
Onuigbo noted that the anniversary provided an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices of the two officers and reflect on their contributions to nation-building.
He praised the quality of dignitaries who participated in the anniversary activities, including the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retired) who represented Tinubu, and former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retired) who paid tribute to Aguiyi-Ironsi.
According to him, the President’s call for renewed commitment to national unity and patriotism showed the administration’s efforts toward strengthening national cohesion.
Onuigbo urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at building a more united, peaceful and prosperous country.
He also called on young Nigerians to study the country’s history and draw inspiration from national figures like Aguiyi-Ironsi and Fajuyi.
The former lawmaker commended Abia Governor, Dr Alex Otti, and the family of the late Aguiyi-Ironsi for organising the anniversary.
He noted that the event attracted notable personalities including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former First Lady, Dr Patience Jonathan.
Onuigbo said continued remembrance of Aguiyi-Ironsi and other national figures who sacrificed for Nigeria would help preserve the country’s history and inspire future generations.
