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| Major General Jafaru Muhammed and Major General Raymond Nkemakonam Ochei |
Major General Raymond Nkemakonam Ochei returned home to thunderous applause, heartfelt tributes, and widespread goodwill from friends, colleagues, and admirers across Nigeria and beyond. Fondly described as “a man of the people, the people’s General, the pride of Aniocha North, and a patriot of Nigeria,” his recent retirement from the Nigerian Army marked the end of a distinguished career defined by excellence, integrity, and service.
The grand Pulling-Out Parade held in his honour at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground, Apapa, Lagos, was a colourful and emotionally charged ceremony that reflected the depth of respect he commands. The valedictory event also celebrated Maj Gen J. Muhammed from Kebbi State and other senior officers, whose decades of dedicated service were formally brought to a close.
The ceremony unfolded against a backdrop of regimental splendour, discipline, and military tradition. It reached its peak with the arrival of the Chief Guest of Honour, who inspected the parade and delivered a keynote address, praising the retiring officers for their gallantry, professionalism, and unwavering loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As the formalities concluded, the atmosphere shifted to celebration, with family members, friends, and dignitaries joining the General for commemorative photographs.
SpyeTV News also paid glowing tribute to two retired senior officers of the Nigerian Army, Major General Jafaru Muhammed and Major General Raymond Ochei, describing them as distinguished patriots whose military careers were marked by discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the nation.
In an interview with SpyeTV, Maj General Ochei recalled with nostalgia their passing-out parades at the Nigerian Defence Academy, noting that the ceremonies signified the beginning of remarkable journeys defined by dedication, courage, and faith in the Nigerian project. We commended their trustworthiness, tactical acumen, and steadfast service, which he said have continued to inspire younger officers and Nigerians alike.
Both officers retired in good health after attaining the prestigious rank of Major General, a testament to their resilience and years of meritorious service. Expressing gratitude for witnessing both the start and successful conclusion of their illustrious careers, We prayed for their continued wellbeing and success in future endeavours. We saluted their gallantry, principles, and exemplary service to Nigeria, describing their legacy as a shining example of patriotic devotion and noble character.
In a defining moment steeped in military heritage, Major General Ochei, accompanied by his wife, Dr. Doris Ochei, mounted an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) to be symbolically pulled out of the barracks—an iconic tradition signifying a dignified transition from active service to retirement. The gesture drew cheers and emotional reactions from attendees, marking the close of a remarkable military journey.
A Legacy Of Excellence
Born in Onicha-Olona in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, Major General Ochei’s life story is one of dedication, discipline, and intellectual pursuit.
He attended St. Peter’s Primary School and St. Pius College in Delta State before gaining admission into the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy in 1988. He passed out in September 1993 as a member of the elite 40th Regular Combatant Course.
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| NDA /4403 OFFICER CADET RAYMOND OCHEI BURMA BATTALION |
A true soldier-scholar, General Ochei distinguished himself both on the battlefield and in the academic world. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Economics from the NDA, a Master’s degree in Economics from Ambrose Alli University, and an MBA from Lead City University.
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| Convocation Ceremony at NDA in 1992-Bachelor of Science in Economics |
Demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning, he later obtained two doctorate degrees—one in Forensic Accounting and Audit from Charisma University and another in Public Administration from Babcock University.
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| Convocation Ceremony for my Ph.D at Babcock University |
His professional profile is equally impressive. He is a member and fellow of several reputable professional bodies, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), the Chartered Institute of Taxation, the Institute of Directors Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, among others. These credentials underscore his deep expertise in financial management, governance, and strategic leadership.
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| Convocation ceremony of my first Ph.D at Charisma University |
Distinguished Military Career
Throughout his career, Major General Ochei held several key appointments within and outside Nigeria. He served as Deputy Defence Adviser in the United Kingdom, a role that strengthened international military cooperation. Within the Nigerian Army, he also served as Registrar of the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration, where he mentored and shaped future military financial experts
He further distinguished himself as Deputy Director at the Department of Training and Administration, Deputy Commander of the Command Finance Office in Apapa, Director of Army Finance and Accounts, and Director-General of the Bureau of Army Financial Management and Audit in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff.
In these roles, he contributed significantly to strengthening financial accountability, transparency, and institutional reforms within the Nigerian Army. His leadership ensured the integrity of military financial systems even during periods of intense operational demands and national security challenges.
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| Member of the NDA 40 Regular Course |
He also attended numerous leadership and professional development programmes, including courses at Harvard Business School and London Business School, reflecting his global outlook and commitment to excellence.
For his dedication and service, he received several medals and honours, including the prestigious Grand Service Star (GSS).
Service Beyond The Uniform
Beyond the barracks, Major General Ochei is widely admired for his commitment to community development. Alongside his wife, Dr. Doris Ochei, he has been actively involved in philanthropic work through the Doris Amaka Ochei Foundation. Their initiatives focus on empowerment, education, healthcare support, and cultural preservation in the Anioma region and beyond.
His deep connection to his roots has earned him admiration across Delta State, where he is regarded as a unifying figure and mentor to young people aspiring to leadership.
A New Chapter Begins
As he transitions into retirement, Major General Ochei’s legacy continues to inspire. Friends, colleagues, and associates have described him as a leader of rare humility, discipline, and intellectual depth. The goodwill messages that trailed his retirement reflect the profound impact he has made on the Nigerian Army, his community, and the nation at large.
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| Chartered Stockbroker for Over 10 years |
Happily married to Dr. Doris Ochei and blessed with four children, the retired General now steps into a new chapter of life—one expected to be filled with continued service, mentorship, and nation-building.
His journey stands as a powerful reminder that true leadership extends beyond rank and uniform. For Major General Raymond Nkemakonam Ochei, retirement is not an end, but the beginning of another phase of purposeful service.
This piece was written by Olayemi Esan, a broadcast Journalist and Public Relations practitioner and the MD of Spye Communications Limited (SpyeTV). She can be reached via email yemiesan04@gmail.com or WhatsApp number 08035132961
