In a ceremony held at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja, Ven. Okechukwu Godson Okoye was promoted to the rank of Air Commodore, making him the first Anglican clergyman in the Church of Nigeria to achieve such a high rank within the Air Force.
The promotion, announced on July 9, 2024, by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, comes in recognition of Ven. Okoye’s “unparalleled dedication and loyalty” throughout his service.
Okoye’s career began in 1986 as a church teacher in Anambra State. Following ordination in the Church of Nigeria, he joined the Nigerian Air Force in 1999 and completed training at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna. Since his commission as a Flying Officer, Ven. Okoye has served as a chaplain in various NAF units, including pioneering the Protestant arm of the NAF Chaplaincy Directorate.
Speaking at the ceremony, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, commended Ven. Okoye and three other promoted officers for fostering religious unity within the Air Force and their dedication to the well-being of personnel.
This promotion highlights the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to recognizing excellence and outstanding service regardless of background. It is also a significant achievement for the Church of Nigeria, demonstrating the ability of its clergy to excel in diverse fields while serving their faith.
