Anthony Ebehijele Okpere is a highly decorated Nigerian Air Force veteran, known for his distinguished service and contributions to the country. Born on the 11th of November 1958 in Edo State, Nigeria, Okpere began his military career in 1979 and has spent over three decades serving his country.
Early Life and Education
Anthony Ebehijele Okpere was raised in Edo state, where he attended St. Paul’s Anglican School, Ekan Primary School, and Oregbeni Primary School, before proceeding to Idia College, Benin City. He later enrolled at the Nigerian Defense Academy, Kaduna, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Military Science and Tactics.
Military Career
Okpere’s military career in the Nigerian Air Force spans over three decades, where he served in various capacities and held several positions. Some of his notable military experiences include:
| Position | Dates | Military Record/Reputation |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet | Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA), Kaduna | Cadet Captain, NDA, Kaduna (Nigeria) |
| Motor Transport Officer | 103 Air Maritime Group, Nigerian Airforce (NAF) | Best MT Officer of NAF, Kaduna (Nigeria). |
| Base Operations Officer | 301 Flying Training School, Kaduna (NAF) | Gulf War I participant, Kaduna (Nigeria) |
| Director of Works and Services | Headquarters, NAF, Abuja (Nigeria) | Nigerian Civil War Veteran, Abuja (Nigeria) |
Personal Life
Anthony Ebehijele Okpere is happily married and has children. He is a lover of luxury cars and owns a property in Abuja, Nigeria. His net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, which is equivalent to ₦620 million in Naira, CAD 1.95 million in Canadian Dollars, ₵8.25 million in Ghana cedis, KSh 157.5 million in Kenya Shillings, R21 million in South African Rand, USh 5.2 billion in Uganda Shillings, and INR 122 crore in Indian Rupees.
Awards and Nominations
Anthony Ebehijele Okpere’s noteworthy military achievements have earned him multiple awards and top military honors. These include:
| Award/Honor | Date | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|
| The Defence Service Medal | 1990 | Nigeria Army |
| The General Service Medal | 1990 | Nigeria Army |
| The National War College Foreign Badge Award (USA) | 2000 | National War College |
| Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) | 2003 | President of Nigeria |
| Field Command Medal | 2006 | Nigeria Air Force Chief of Staff |
| The National Defence College Course 11/2010 Pictorial Biography | 2011 | National Defence College |
Anthony Ebehijele Okpere has undoubtedly etched his name in the annals of Nigerian Military history, and his service and sacrifices will always be remembered.
References: Anthony Ebehijele Okpere- Wikipedia