A somber atmosphere enveloped Benin City as the late Major General Osasogie Idowu Uzamere (retired), former commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps, was laid to rest on Thursday, 22 June 2023. The respected senior officer had passed away at his residence in Abuja on Sunday, 28 May 2023, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the nation.
The body of Major General Idowu Uzamere arrived at Elysium Marquee and Hotel in Benin City, where a funeral service was conducted to pay tribute to his life and service. Friends, family, and colleagues gathered to bid their final farewell before the cortege proceeded to his residence in the GRA (Government Reserved Area) of Benin City for the interment ceremony.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, during the funeral oration was Major General KO Aligbe, the Acting Executive Director Consult at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja. In his heartfelt tribute, Major General Aligbe described Major General Uzamere as a brilliant, diligent, resourceful, and meticulous senior officer. He commended the late officer for his unblemished record throughout his illustrious career in the Army and praised his forthrightness, outstanding moral standards, and awe-inspiring leadership qualities that served as a source of motivation for young officers. He concluded by offering prayers for the eternal rest of Major General Uzamere’s soul.
The burial ceremony witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General LEO Irabor, who was represented by Rear Admiral Ferrera, Commander of Operation Delta Safe. Also in attendance was the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, represented by Major General KO Aligbe. Retired and serving senior officers from the Army, Navy, Airforce, and Defence Headquarters also paid their respects, highlighting the high regard in which Major General Uzamere was held within the military community. Members of the 35 Regular Course and 75 Nigerian Military School Zaria, as well as the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association and the 35 Regular Course Officers Wives Association (known as Amazon Babes), were present to mourn the loss of the esteemed senior officer.
The spouse, children, immediate family members, and close friends of Major General Uzamere were also in attendance, offering their support and solace during this difficult time. The burial ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that Major General Uzamere had on the Nigerian Army and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
