Residents and dignitaries gathered in somber tribute to the late Major General, who died on March 10, 2026, at the age of 86 after a protracted illness,

Upon arrival of Minister Beti Assomo, cadet officers bearing the casket proceeded to the catafalque, followed by the rendering of military honors in his honour.

Traditionally dressed elites from Okola and neighboring villages performed ancestral rites and dances around the catafalque, expressing grief and accompanying the deceased to his final resting place.

A funeral Mass was celebrated by Bishop Sosthène Léopold Bayemi of the Diocese of Obala. In his homily, the bishop reflected on the themes of resurrection and eternal life.

In his eulogy,the Chief of Army Staff Major General Saly Mohamadou retraced the General’s life and career. Born on September 3, 1940, in Okola, Nkoa Atenga Camille obtained his Advanced Level certificate at Lycée Joss in Douala in 1961. He joined the Armed Forces in 1991 through the Cameroon Combined Military Academy (EMIAC) as part of the “Reunification” Batch — the academy’s first intake after independence. Recalling that his service under the flag was defined by loyalty and selfless devotion to the Nation.

The ceremony also featured personal tributes from senior military authorities, an address by the Mayor of Okola and other dignitaries honoring the late Major General.

The burial ceremony culminated with the reading of a condolence letter from the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Paul Biya, delivered by the Senior Divisional Officer of the Lekie Division, Patrick Simou Kamsu to the bereaved family.