By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
The Nigerian Army has paid its final respects to Captain Keziah Godiya Ayuba, who was laid to rest with full military honours in her hometown of Sambon Gida, Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The solemn event was attended by top military officials, family, and friends who gathered to celebrate her life and service.
Brigadier General Philip Ebuk, Commander of 1 Division Supply and Transport, represented the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, during the burial. In his tribute, he described Captain Ayuba as a committed and highly professional officer who served Nigeria with distinction.
Captain Keziah Godiya Ayuba was born on 9 July 1987 in Shogunle, Lagos State, but hailed from Jaba LGA in Kaduna State. She began her academic journey at Police Children School, Ikeja, before moving on to Toamy Private College in Egbe. Her pursuit of higher education led her to Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, where she obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Public Administration.
Her determination and passion for serving the nation motivated her to join the Nigerian Army through the Direct Short Service Course 23 on 3 July 2017. From that moment, she embarked on a remarkable military career that earned her respect and admiration.
Throughout her service in the Nigerian Army, Captain Ayuba held several important positions. She served as the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations within the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport. Additionally, she played a key role as Staff Officer Grade 3, Information and Publication, at 81 Division Army Public Relations.
Her exceptional leadership skills, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty distinguished her as a highly respected officer. She consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to her responsibilities, setting a high standard for her colleagues.
Captain Ayuba’s commitment to excellence was evident in her pursuit of further military training. She successfully completed various specialised courses, including:
Young Officers’ Course in Public Relations
Media Operations Officers’ Course
Legal Aspects of Combatting Terrorism Course
Her outstanding performance in these courses enhanced her capabilities as a military officer, reinforcing her status as a valuable asset to the Nigerian Army. In recognition of her service and contributions, she was awarded the General Operations Medal, a testament to her dedication and achievements.
Beyond her military accomplishments, she served as an inspiration, particularly for female officers striving to excel in their careers. Her journey stood as proof that determination, discipline, and hard work could lead to great success in the armed forces.
As part of the final military rites, the Nigerian Army honoured Captain Ayuba with a traditional 21-gun salute. Her Next of Kin was presented with the national flag and her military insignia, symbolising her selfless service to the nation.
During the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff expressed deep sorrow over the loss of such a brilliant officer. He highlighted her exceptional qualities and described her passing as a significant loss not only to her family but also to the Nigerian military and the country as a whole.
