The remains of former Aide-de-Camp to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Major General Christopher Jemitola (retd), have been laid to rest in Abuja on Thursday after a military ceremony and honour.
Late General Jemitola, who passed away on February 6, 2025, was buried at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
His burial was attended by top military officers, family members, and friends, all of whom lauded his service, integrity, and leadership while alive.
Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd), described late Jemitola as the epitome of a professional soldier.
“General Chris Jemitola is a perfect example of an officer and a gentleman. I had the privilege of meeting him in NDA. He was my senior, and we served together in the signal corps. Throughout his service, he showed the character of a professional soldier—calm, reliable, and dedicated. He will be deeply missed,” Gen. Irabor said.
Irabor recalled that the deceased called to check on him and his family two weeks before his death.
“Just less than two weeks ago, he called me up and asked after me and my family. What a rare privilege. And then to also know that that would be my last conversation with him—it’s truly a sad day.
“But, of course, my comfort is that he lived a good life. I also pray for his family and children, for God to comfort them,” he added.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also paid tribute, describing Jemitola as a mentor.
The COAS represented by the Chief of Administration, Army Headquarters, Major General Lawrence Fejekwu, said: “The late General Jemitola was a mentor to all of us.
“He was a calm officer with a good heart, always approachable, and willing to guide younger officers. The presence of so many dignitaries today is a testament to the impact he had on others.”
Jemitola’s son, Caleb, said he would miss the lessons taught by his father. According to him, his late father always found a lesson in every moment.
“What I miss most about my dad is his lessons. He found a lesson in every moment, always trying to teach me something. We could be watching the most casual of videos, and he would ask, ‘What did you learn from this? What can you take away from this?’
“We could see something happening on the road, and he would try to teach me something from that. And now that he isn’t here anymore, I know that there isn’t anyone in my life who can offer me the same advice and counsel that he did. So all I can do now is hold on to everything he taught me and do my best to make him as proud as I possibly can,” Caleb stated.
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