Testimonies Of Honour And Greatness As AVM (Rtd) Terry Omatsola Okorodudu Is Celebrated In Grand Style

 “Though he has taken his final flight, his legacy remains firmly grounded.”

 

Testimonies of honour, strength, and enduring impact poured out as family, friends, military colleagues, political associates, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Terry Omatsola Okorodudu, a distinguished Nigerian Air Force officer whose life was defined by service, discipline, integrity, and love for country.

 

The Service of Songs, held on 11 January 2026, was a solemn yet deeply moving evening that reflected the wide reach of AVM Okorodudu’s influence. The gathering brought together an impressive mix of military leaders, political figures, community elders, diplomats, and loved ones, all united to honour a man whose contributions transcended uniform and rank.

 

Born on 27 August 1955, Terry Omatsola Okorodudu was commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force in 1976. Over the course of more than three decades, he rose steadily through the ranks, earning respect for his professionalism, leadership, and principled conduct. He retired in 2010 as an Air Vice Marshal, leaving behind a reputation for excellence and mentorship.

 

Beyond active service, AVM Okorodudu remained deeply engaged in national and political affairs. In Delta State and across Nigeria, he was known as a respected political stalwart, mentor, and community leader. His aspiration for legislative service under the All Progressives Congress (APC) reflected his enduring commitment to national development and public service.

 

Group Captain Nnoruka

His passing in September 2025, after a brief illness, sent shockwaves across the nation and drew tributes from far and wide. Among those who paid homage was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who acknowledged AVM Okorodudu’s immense contributions to national security and nation-building as a disciplined and patriotic Air Force officer.

 

Survived by his devoted wife of many years, Mrs Joan Okorodudu, their children, and grandchildren, AVM Okorodudu was remembered not only for his public achievements but also for the warmth, wisdom, and strength he brought to his family life. In an emotional moment, Mrs Joan Okorodudu described her late husband as “irreplaceable,” a partner whose presence and guidance shaped both family and community.

 

The Service of Songs featured hymns, prayers, scripture readings, and heartfelt tributes. Speaker after speaker reflected on his integrity, calm leadership, and quiet strength. A close family friend described him as “a beacon of integrity and service, a man who flew with honour and lived with purpose,” words that resonated deeply with the congregation.

 

A senior Nigerian Air Force colleague who served alongside him for years spoke passionately about his legacy within the military. According to him, AVM Okorodudu led by example, insisting on professionalism while patiently mentoring younger officers with empathy and care.

 

Another colleague—who served with him as a squadron officer and later encountered him in political life—described him as “a man of integrity and his word.” He added, “His yes was his yes, and his no was his no. He taught us how to navigate both the military and politics with discipline and clarity. He was exceptionally intelligent, and it was never easy to catch up with him.”

 

Political associates present at the service highlighted his post-retirement civic engagement. One party leader noted that AVM Okorodudu devoted his life to duty long after leaving active service, seamlessly transitioning from military leadership to national and community service.

 

Tributes also underscored his deep connection to his roots. A community leader from Delta State described him as “a proud son and prince of his land, whose achievements brought honour not only to his family but to his people.” Despite his national exposure, he remained grounded and committed to community development.

 

The clergy officiating the service spoke of a man of faith who strongly believed in serving God and humanity. Reflections focused on his generosity, moral responsibility, and steadfast principles, with many noting that he was never driven by personal gain, but by duty and honour.

 

As the evening progressed, it became clear that the gathering was not only about mourning a loss but about celebrating a life well lived. Attendees recalled his accessibility despite his rank, his calm leadership during challenging times, and his ability to unite people across generations, professions, and backgrounds.

 

In a poignant closing moment, Mrs Joan Okorodudu was formally presented with the flag that draped her husband’s coffin, a powerful symbol of his service and sacrifice to the nation.

 

A family representative expressed gratitude to all who attended and to those who sent messages of condolence, noting that the overwhelming support reflected the kind of life AVM Okorodudu lived.

One final tribute captured the collective sentiment of the evening:
“Though he has taken his final flight, his values, lessons, and example will continue to guide us.”

 

The Service of Songs for Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Terry Omatsola Okorodudu stood as a profound reminder of a life marked by honour, sacrifice, and enduring impact, a legacy firmly etched in Nigeria’s military and civic history.