18th August, 2011
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has received, with shock and sadness, the news of the death of Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, retd, Nigeria’s Chief of General Staff from 1986 – 1993.
President Jonathan described Admiral Aikhomu as a patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria in the Navy, and contributed immensely to the political development of Nigeria as second-in-command to President Ibrahim Babangida.
“Admiral Aikhomu’s life was defined by the values of hard work and commitment; he was a conscientious and dutiful officer who was in all respects admirably equipped for his roles in the military and in the larger societyâ€, the President added.
Even in retirement, Admiral Aikhomu continued to offer his services to Nigeria.
He said the death marks the sad loss of an experienced, committed and dedicated Nigerian, at a time when the country still needs his wisdom and knowledge and contributions as a statesman.
President Jonathan expressed his personal condolence and that of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the family, and prayed that God would grant them comfort and consolation to bear this irreparable loss.