Tinubu Mourns UN Peacekeeping Pioneer Obiakor

President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences on the passing of retired Lieutenant General Chikadibia Obiakor, the first African military adviser for United Nations peacekeeping operations, who died on May 27, 2026, at the age of 75 after reportedly suffering a massive stroke. In a statement signed by his special adviser on strategic communication, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Obiakor as an outstanding patriot who dedicated his life to serving humanity and promoting peace.

Obiakor held significant roles in various peacekeeping missions and was appointed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as military adviser for peacekeeping operations worldwide on May 28, 2008. He served in this capacity until September 2, 2010, and had previously commanded the UN mission in Liberia.

After retiring from the army in 2011, Obiakor continued to serve in various international assignments. The UN also mourned his passing, extending condolences to his family and the Nigerian government.