Aguiyi Ironsi is a symbol of national unity, selfless service – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has described Nigeria’s first military Head of State, the late General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, as a symbol of national unity, courage and selfless service, saying his legacy remains relevant to the country’s nation-building efforts.

Tinubu made the remark in a message delivered on his behalf by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, at the 60th memorial of the late military leader held in Umuahia, Abia State, on Tuesday.

According to the President, Aguiyi-Ironsi’s military career was marked by discipline, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to duty, culminating in his emergence as Nigeria’s first General Officer Commanding and later the country’s first military Head of State.

“Although his tenure was brief, he demonstrated a firm commitment to preserving national unity, restoring stability and maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian state. He understood that leadership demands sacrifice, placing the interest of the nation above personal considerations,” Tinubu said.

The President said the values exemplified by Aguiyi-Ironsi remained vital to Nigeria’s development, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting the country’s unity and strengthening democratic institutions.

“Our diversity remains one of our greatest strengths, and it is through mutual respect, tolerance, justice and shared purpose that we will continue to build a peaceful and prosperous nation,” he said.

Tinubu also conveyed the nation’s gratitude to the family of the late military leader and commended the organisers for sustaining the annual remembrance, saying honouring past national heroes reinforces the values that bind the country together.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also attended the memorial, described Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriot who led the country during one of the most turbulent periods in its history.