President Bola Tinubu on Saturday extolled the virtues of former Chief of General Staff, the late Gen. Oladipo Diya, whom he described as a selfless and diligent leader.
Tinubu stated this in a message at the final funeral rites of Diya at his hometown in Odogbolu, Ogun State.
According to him, Diya’s contributions to nation-building remained a reference point for coming generations.
The president’s message was delivered by Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.
Tinubu noted that while Diya’s death was painful, his impactful life and legacies were sufficient to console his loved ones and the generality of Nigerians.
He added that Diya’s contributions to the sanctity of Nigeria’s territorial integrity were legendary.
“Gen. Diya’s efforts towards curtailing several uprisings that threatened the corporate entity of Nigeria are legendary, and these will remain indelible in the consciousness of Nigerians and sub-Sahara Africans.
“Indeed his life of selflessness and diligence in the service of the military remains a reference point for coming generations of military officers.
“His leadership and tactical prowess greatly contributed to the success of this nation.
“He implemented various reforms in the army, including training programmes and welfare for soldiers and under his leadership, the Nigerian Army witnessed significant advancement and operational effectiveness,’’ Tinubu stated.
Late Gen. Diya was born in Odogbolu, Ogun State, on April 3, 1944.
He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, at a young age and was part of the active soldiers who fought during the Nigerian Civil War between July 6, 1967, and Jan. 15, 1970.
