AGED 78, THE RETIRED NIGERIAN ARMY SERGEANT IS REMEMBERED FOR HIS COURAGE, HUMILITY, LOVE FOR FAMILY, AND UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO SERVICE
The life and times of Late Sergeant Godwin Ovabor Omozokpia (Rtd.), fondly known as “Combatant,” “Depot Guy” and “Guitar-Boy,” were celebrated as family members, friends, military associates, members of the Catholic community and well-wishers gathered to honour a man whose life was defined by discipline, courage, humility, faith and dedication to service.
Pa. Godwin Ovabor Omozokpia, who passed away on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, at the age of 78, left behind a legacy of patriotism, fatherhood, musical talent and commitment to family.
The funeral ceremonies featured a Holy Mass at Archangel Catholic Church, Satellite Town, Lagos, followed by his interment at the Military Burial Grounds, Badagry, Lagos. A reception was subsequently held at the Oriade Local Government Secretariat Hall, where guests were warmly received and treated to delicious food, wine, beer, chilled malt drinks and melodious music.
The gathering provided an opportunity for family members, friends and associates to celebrate his life, share cherished memories and pay their final respects to the departed patriarch.
A LIFE OF SERVICE AND DISCIPLINE
Born on 6 May 1948 in Lagos to Pa. Joseph Akhuiwu Omozokpia and the late Mrs. Otiti Omozokpia, the late Sergeant Omozokpia attended Awori Ajeromi Grammar School, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos.
He enlisted in the Nigerian Army on 1 May 1970 and served in the Supply and Transport (S&T) Corps, as well as with the Army Band. Through dedication and hard work, he rose to the rank of Sergeant before retiring from active service on 30 June 1993. His final unit was Headquarters Supply and Transport (HQ S&T).
During his posting to Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State, he trained recruits, including members of the 26th, 27th and 28th intakes. His smart dressing, distinctive personality and commitment to military duties earned him the affectionate nickname “Depot Guy.”
Although he retired from active service, his passion for the military remained strong throughout his life. He was particularly proud that three of his children followed in his footsteps into the Armed Forces—one in the Nigerian Navy and two in the Nigerian Army.
THE SOLDIER WITH A MUSICAL SOUL
Beyond the uniform, Pa. Omozokpia was a gifted musician who played the harmonica and guitar with remarkable skill, earning him the nickname “Guitar-Boy.”
His talent reportedly attracted the attention of legendary Nigerian musician, the late Sir Victor Uwaifo, who saw him perform on the television programme Saturday Square and also heard him on the radio.
Impressed by his ability, Sir Victor invited him to his residence in Lagos, and an opportunity arose for him to travel to Tokyo with the musician to pursue his musical dream. However, family responsibilities intervened, and the journey never took place.
Despite this setback, music remained an enduring passion. His musical talent also influenced his children, particularly his son, Mr. Imade Fitzgerald Omozokpia, who developed proficiency in the harmonica and flute, including the piccolo.
A DEVOTED FATHER AND FAMILY MAN
To his children, he was more than a soldier. He was a loving father, disciplinarian, mentor and role model whose values shaped their lives.
He was married to the late Mrs. Esther Akhegbunu Omozokpia, who passed away on 24 June 2024. Together, they raised a family that continues to cherish the principles of discipline, responsibility, humility and hard work.
In his tribute, his first son, Mr. Imade Fitzgerald Omozokpia, recalled how his father made him polish military boots and iron uniforms during childhood. Although these responsibilities sometimes appeared burdensome at the time, he later recognised them as lessons in discipline and responsibility.
He also recalled his father’s corrections whenever he 
towards his teachers, acknowledging that those experiences helped shape his character.
His daughter, Rosemary, remembered him as a kind, generous and prayerful father who loved his children and extended family. She fondly recalled his affectionate nicknames and his familiar prayer declaration: “You shall be Connected to the Connection that can Never be Disconnected.”
Another daughter, Millicent, remembered how he called her “the civilian general,” a name that made her feel loved and appreciated.
Sub-Lieutenant Osas Anthony Omozokpia described his father as his mentor, guide, protector and teacher. He recalled the affectionate words “Admiral my son” and expressed gratitude that his father lived to witness his commissioning as an officer.
Sergeant Loveth Ayo Omozokpia also paid tribute to her father, recalling how he taught her neatness, smartness, discipline and dignity through his personal example.
These heartfelt tributes revealed the deep bond he shared with his children and the enduring influence of his fatherly guidance.
A MAN OF FAITH AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Pa. Omozokpia was an ardent Catholic who actively participated in the life of the Church. He belonged to organisations including the Catholic Men’s Organisation (CMO) and the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC).
His faith and commitment to service reflected the values of humility, responsibility and concern for others that his family and associates continue to celebrate.
The Holy Mass at Archangel Catholic Church, Satellite Town, Lagos, was a fitting tribute to the faith that remained an important part of his life.
HIS LOVE FOR FOOTBALL AND READING
Away from military duties, the late Sergeant enjoyed football and was a goalkeeper with the Buffalos Nigerian Army Football Team in Zaria during the early 1980s. His teammates included Atere, a defender; Gambos, a midfielder; and Tom, among others.
He also enjoyed pole vault and took a keen interest in news and current affairs. He was a fan of Newsline, the popular NTA programme associated with Frank Olize, and enjoyed reading BBC Focus on Africa magazine.
These interests reflected his diverse personality and his love for sports, music, reading and knowledge.
A SOLDIER’S FINAL WISH
One of the clearest expressions of his lifelong attachment to military service was his wish to be buried in a military cemetery.
After celebrating his 78th birthday on 6 May 2026, he passed away on 16 June 2026, just 41 days later.
His interment at the Military Burial Grounds, Badagry, Lagos, honoured his final wish and brought his earthly journey to a close in a setting befitting his years of service to the nation.
A LEGACY THAT LIVES ON
He will be remembered as a disciplined soldier, a gifted musician, a devoted husband and father, a man of faith, and a patriot who took pride in serving his country.
His life demonstrated that true greatness lies not only in professional achievements but also in the values one instils in others and the memories one leaves behind.
As his family bids him farewell, his cherished names remain a lasting tribute to the different dimensions of his life.
Rest on, Old Soldier.
Rest on, Combatant.
Rest on, Depot Guy.
Rest on, Guitar-Boy.
