PRESS RELEASE
“General Omu was a friend like no other, loyal, compassionate, and unwavering in his principles. Over the decades, our families became deeply connected, and I cherished every moment of our friendship. Having his children plant trees in his honour at the Gardens was profoundly symbolic and meaningful. It is a living testament to the legacy he leaves behind. Nigeria has lost one of its finest statesmen. I have lost a true friend, and his memory will stay with me always. I will miss his friendship”
THE Founder and Chairman of the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort, Dr. Newton Jibunoh, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his long-time friend, the Late Major General (Chief) Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), OFR, rcds, who passed away on 29 April 2025 at the age of 84.
In honour of the late statesman, his children visited the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort, where Dr. Jibunoh personally hosted them. During the visit, the family planted memorial trees in memory of their father—a symbolic gesture celebrating his legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to the nation. The occasion was deeply moving and highlighted the bond between the Jibunoh and Omu families. The trees were planted by: Mrs. Ekemere Larry Ettah, Engr. Mrs. Elozino Olaniyan and Mr. Ayemo Omu.
Born in July 1940, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu was a soldier, administrator, and patriot whose service to Nigeria spanned decades. He enlisted in the Nigerian Army on 10 December 1962, training alongside notable officers, including Ibrahim Babangida, Sani Bello, and Garba Duba. Following his training at the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, United Kingdom, he was commissioned on 25 July 1963.
In July 1975, while serving as Commander of the 33 Infantry Brigade, he was appointed Military Governor of the South-Eastern State (renamed Cross River State in 1976), serving until July 1978 under the military regimes of Generals Murtala Muhammed and Olusegun Obasanjo. He retired from the Nigerian Army with the rank of Major General on 3 September 1990.
Reflecting on their friendship, Dr. Jibunoh said:
“General Omu was a friend like no other, loyal, compassionate, and unwavering in his principles. Over the decades, our families became deeply connected, and I cherished every moment of our friendship. Having his children plant trees in his honour at the Gardens was profoundly symbolic and meaningful. It is a living testament to the legacy he leaves behind. Nigeria has lost one of its finest statesmen. I have lost a true friend, and his memory will stay with me always. I will miss his friendship”
A Service of Songs was held on Thursday at St. Philips Anglican Church, AGGS Compound, Asaba, Delta State. The Burial Ceremony will take place at St. Andrews Anglican Church, Igbide, Isoko South, Delta State, at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at his residence in Igbide.
Dr. Jibunoh, his family, and the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort extend heartfelt condolences to the Omu family. May the soul of Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd) rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy of service, leadership, and friendship continue to inspire generations.
