Brigadier Babafemi O. Ogundipe’s story is one of remarkable loyalty, peace, and selflessness. Born on September 6, 1924, in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria, Ogundipe joined the Royal West African Frontier Force in 1941 and served in Burma between 1942 and 1945. He re-enlisted after World War II and rose to the rank of Brigadier in May 1964.
1. Early Life & Birthplace – He was born on September 6, 1924, in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria.
2. World War II Service – He joined the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF) in 1941 and served in Burma during World War II (1942–1945).
3. Post-War Military Career – After the war, Ogundipe re-enlisted and steadily rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army.
4. First Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters – In January 1966, he became the first Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, effectively making him the second-in-command to Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.
5. Avoided Civil War Tensions – During Nigeria’s political crisis in 1966, he was expected to take control after Aguiyi-Ironsi’s assassination but was sidelined due to ethnic and military politics, leading to Yakubu Gowon becoming Head of State.
6. Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK – Instead of taking political power, he was appointed Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom in September 1966, where he served until August 1970.
7. Role in Diplomacy – As High Commissioner, he played a vital diplomatic role during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), maintaining Nigeria’s international relations.
8. Highest-Ranking Yoruba Officer (1966) – At the time of the 1966 coup, Ogundipe was the highest-ranking Yoruba officer in the Nigerian Army, yet he chose diplomacy over force.
9. Selflessness & Loyalty – Unlike many military leaders of his time, he did not seek power for personal gain but instead prioritized national stability and peace.
10. Death & Legacy – He passed away on November 20, 1971, in London, leaving behind a reputation for discipline, peacekeeping, and selfless service to Nigeria.
Ogundipe’s career was marked by distinguished service, including his roles as:
– De facto second-in-command and first Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters* from January 1966 to August 1966 during Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi’s military regime³ ⁴
– Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from September 1966 to August 1970 during General Yakubu Gowon’s military regime
Ogundipe passed away in London on November 20, 1971, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty, peace, and selflessness.
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