“He was a pillar of UPDF professionalism” – Museveni hails Major Obua

President Gen. (rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday paid tribute to the late Major Obua Armstrong, describing him as a diligent and professional officer who served Uganda with passion and distinction.

The deceased was the brother of the Government Chief Whip and Ajuri County MP, Denis Hamson Obua.

The President delivered his message through the Minister for Defence, Jacob Oboth Oboth, at the burial ceremony on September 5, 2025, in Amindit village, Abako sub-county, Alebtong.

President Museveni commended the late officer as a pillar of professionalism in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and contributed shs 10 million to help with burial expenses.

Major Armstrong Obua joined the UPDF on September 27, 2001, as a cadet and rose through the ranks to Major. At the time of his death, he was serving as an instructor officer at the Jinja Military Academy.

Speaking on behalf of friends and the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Col. David Opeero—the Deputy 5th Division Commander—said Major Obua lived “a life dedicated to service, a heart devoted to mentorship, and a spirit that shaped generations.

“His legacy reminds us that true greatness lies not only in ranks but in the values we leave behind.”

In a separate tribute, the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, described the late Major as a diligent professional who served with passion.

Major Obua died in a fatal road crash on August 29, 2025. Gen. Kainerugaba added that the “force was deeply saddened by the loss of such a senior officer whose service was still greatly needed.”

“We join family, relatives, and friends at this difficult time to mourn the fallen comrade whom we shall always remember,” he said.

The late Major was accorded an 18-gun salute.

In his eulogy, Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth described the late as a corruption-free officer, a hardworking and intelligent leader, and a loyal servant of the nation. “He has been a very good person, hardworking, intelligent, and most importantly, very loyal to the appointing authority,” he said.

The Ministry of Defence also contributed shs 5 million to support the burial program.

The burial was attended by UPDF generals, senior officers, Members of Parliament, Ministers, Clergy and cultural leaders, including RDCs.

Addressing the mourners on behalf of the Lango Parliamentary Group Chairperson, Kole North MP, Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti, who is also the group’s General Secretary, urged people to unite behind their elected leaders for future success.

MP Opio delivered a total of shs 32 million contributed by Members of Parliament, which included shs 10 million from the Speaker of Parliament, shs 5 million from the Lango Parliamentary Group, and shs 17 million from other MPs.

While preaching to the mourners, the Bishop Emeritus of West Lango Diocese, Rt. Rev. Alex Alfred Acur Okodi, praised President Museveni for fostering total peace and unity in the country through a strong army.

Quoting Ecclesiastes 3:1, Bishop Acur reminded the congregation that there is a time and season for everything. “Obua Armstrong has gone at the age of 49, but this should not end everything. Let us keep praying for his soul… let us know that death is there, and let us start preparing as we wait for the time.”