Major General Raymond N. Ochei (rtd) has been celebrated for his outstanding contribution to Nigeria’s defence and nation-building following his retirement from the Nigerian Army after 37 years of meritorious service.
In a heartfelt tribute released to mark the senior officer’s pulling-out ceremony, his wife, Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei, described the occasion as a moment of “gratitude and pride,” reflecting on nearly four decades of dedication to duty, leadership, and sacrifice.
Dr. Ochei praised her husband’s professional conduct, noting that he served the country “with dignity, honour and humility,” adding that his exemplary record within and outside the barracks earned him respect among colleagues and civilians alike.
“For nearly four decades he has served with dignity, honour and humility. He led with maturity, lived with integrity, and carried the uniform with an exemplary conduct that never wavered,” she said.
According to her, Major General Ochei retired without controversy, distinguishing himself as a disciplined officer who related to people across social classes with respect and compassion. She emphasized that he never used his position to intimidate others but instead focused on lifting people through kindness and sacrifice.
On the family front, the emotional tribute highlighted the realities of military life, with Dr. Ochei recounting the personal cost of service during their 26 years of marriage. She described her husband as “the best father and husband anyone could hope for,” acknowledging periods of separation, loneliness, and silent sacrifices made to support his calling.
“As an officer’s wife I have known the cost of duty, long seasons of loneliness and burdens borne in silence so that he could answer the call to serve,” she noted, while also expressing gratitude for his unwavering commitment to both family and country.
She further expressed relief and thanksgiving that the retired general completed his career safely and honorably, stating that she felt blessed to witness him “pulled out in dignity” at the peak of a distinguished military journey.
Beyond personal reflections, Dr. Ochei used the moment to honour military families and fallen heroes, urging recognition for spouses, children, widows, and widowers whose sacrifices often go unnoticed.
“My heart goes out to the families of our fallen heroes and heroines, we honour your loss and stand with you in grief and gratitude,” she said.
Describing her husband as “a real gem, a hero, a star, an achiever and a mentor,” she prayed that his retirement would usher in peace, restoration, and continued impact through his legacy of humility and service.
Major General Ochei’s retirement marks the end of an era defined by decades of military leadership and dedication, as colleagues, family members, and well-wishers celebrate a career widely regarded as honourable and exemplary.
