Anambra Philanthropist Ikenna Okafor Honoured with Nigerian Army Outstanding Service Commendation Medal
By Ifeizu Joe
Chairman of Keves Global Leasing Limited, Chief Ikenna Okafor, has been honoured with the Nigerian Army Outstanding Service Commendation Medal (NAOSCM) in recognition of his exceptional support and contributions to the Nigerian Army.
The prestigious award was presented during the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where serving and retired military personnel, alongside distinguished civilians, were recognised for their outstanding service and commitment to national development.
Chief Okafor, widely known by his traditional title Ide Akwaeze, was one of only three civilians selected nationwide for the honour. In a letter conveying the award, the Chief of Army Staff stated that the recognition was in appreciation of Okafor’s sustained contributions to the development and welfare of the Nigerian Army.
According to the Army, his interventions include the construction of a five unit Single Officers’ Quarters, a Physical Training Cloak and Lounge, the 29 Battalion Medical Reception Station, two lawn tennis courts, a volleyball court with pavilion at the Headquarters 6 Division Sports Arena, and a 14 unit self contained accommodation for corporals and other junior personnel.
The ceremony also honoured distinguished military veterans, including former ECOMOG Force Commander, retired Major General Felix Mujakperuo, for his contributions to regional peace and security.
The event attracted several high profile dignitaries, among them former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, deputy governors, former Chiefs of Army Staff, Chiefs of Defence Intelligence and other senior government and military officials.
Speaking at the event, Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for choosing the state to host the 2026 celebration. He described the decision as a positive reflection of the state’s security environment and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies.
The 2026 NADCEL grand finale featured colourful military parades and displays by the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Army Engineers Corps, Army Band, Army Intelligence Corps and other formations, showcasing the professionalism, technological advancement and operational readiness of the nation’s armed forces.
