The remains of Vice Adm. Mike Akhigbe, a former Chief of General Staff (CGS), were laid to rest on Saturday in Fugar, Etsako Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking at the funeral mass, President Goodluck Jonathan described Akhigbe as an exemplary officer and a gentleman, and a consummate administrator who displayed outstanding leadership.
Jonathan hoped that Akhigbe’s sterling qualities would inspire Nigerians to be more committed to providing greater service to the country.
He prayed that God would grant Akhigbe’s wife and family the strength to cope with the loss.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the President was represented by the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo.
Earlier, in a homily, the Rev. Fr. Innocent Okifoh, said that a Christian burial was for spiritual support to the soul of the dead and to honour the living.
“Death is not the end of life. It only changes the texture of life.
“Akhigbe has been in Government and every mandate to govern is from God. When you are in Government, you should ask yourself what you would be remembered for and what God would reward you for,” he said.
The Senate President, David Mark, described Akhigbe as a very humble man who thought more of Nigeria.
He recalled that Akhigbe was the rallying point for all the members of the 3rd Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
He urged his children to emulate their father.
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo expressed gratitude to God for what He used Akhigbe to do for the country, the state and for himself.