Ojuawo Decorated with Prestigious Defence Phoenix Award.

Ojuawo Decorated with Prestigious Defence Phoenix Award.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has been decorated with the Phoenix Award, the highest military honour in the Ministry of Defence, Nigeria.

The Phoenix Award symbolizes rising from adversity or obscurity to attain prominence. It is closely associated with recovery, innovation, excellence, and the maintenance of unity within military formations. 

The award is traditionally reserved for distinguished military veterans and serving officers, and is usually bestowed by the Military in recognition of exceptional service to the nation.

Hon. Ojuawo, who retired from the Nigerian Air Force as an Air Vice Marshal (Two-Star General) after an illustrious 37-year career, is a seasoned fighter pilot with extensive experience in war operations, combat missions, surveillance, and advanced military training both within and outside Nigeria.

Prior to his retirement, he served meritoriously as Director of Operations and Tactical Air Commanding Officer, Tactical air officer Command of the Nigerian Air Force, among several other strategic command positions, recording outstanding achievements throughout his service years.

The award ceremony was organised by the Nigerian Military as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. The event was chaired by the  Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), OFR, and aimed at recognising and rewarding veterans and serving officers who demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and dedication in the discharge of their duties to the nation.

In his address, General Musa acknowledged Hon. Ojuawo’s exemplary performance and resilience from his early days as a commissioned officer until his retirement. He described him as a brave, diligent, honest, and meticulous officer whose records remain outstanding within the Nigerian military.

“With AVM Ojuawo on any assignment -be it rescue missions, combat operations, aerial surveillance, or even outright war—his records are remarkable and a source of pride to the Nigerian Military. He served in various formations with distinction, and by all our records, this award is well deserved,” the Defence Chief emphasised.

In his appreciation remarks, Hon. Ojuawo expressed profound gratitude to the military hierarchy for the honour, describing the award as a testament to his lifelong commitment and service to the nation.

“I am sincerely honoured to receive this award tonight in the presence of my wife. The Phoenix Award reflects my years of service to Nigeria. I say thank you for this great honour. It is also a renewed call to duty as I currently represent my people at the Green Chamber. I assure you that I will exceed this record of service in my constituency,” Hon. Ojuawo stated.

The Phoenix Award further reinforces Hon. Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi’s legacy of discipline, patriotism, and excellence qualities he continues to demonstrate in his legislative service to the people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I. 

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM