Family to mark 60th memorial anniversary of Aguiyi-Ironsi

The family of Nigeria's first Military Head of State, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, is preparing to commemorate the 60th anniversary of his passing. The memorial event is scheduled to take place in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, on Wednesday.

In addition to honoring the late Head of State, the family will also hold a memorial mass for his wife, Lady Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, on Sunday, August 2, 2026. The mass will be conducted at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Afara-Ukwu, Umuahia, commencing at 10:00 am.

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The anniversary provides an opportunity for the nation to honour the memory, leadership, and sacrifices of a distinguished Nigerian patriot whose contributions to national unity and development remain enduring.

According to a statement released by his son, Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, who previously served as Minister of State for Defence and Minister of Defence, the anniversary event will feature a wreath-laying ceremony at the Aguiyi-Ironsi Tomb Site. The family views the anniversary as an occasion for the nation to remember the leadership and sacrifices of a distinguished Nigerian patriot whose contributions to national unity and development remain significant.

Prominent figures are expected to attend the commemoration. President Bola Tinubu, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and other notable Nigerians are anticipated to grace the occasion, underscoring the enduring legacy of Major General Aguiyi-Ironsi. Lady Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi passed away on August 23, 2021, at the age of 97. Major General Aguiyi-Ironsi was assassinated on July 29, 1966, during the July counter-coup, just months after assuming office in the aftermath of the January 15, 1966 military coup. He was a key figure in Nigeria's early military history.

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The Memorial Mass of Her Excellency Noble Lady V.N. Aguiyi-Ironsi will hold on Sunday, 2nd August, 2026 at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Afara-Ukwu, Umuahia, Abia State. Time: 10:00 am.