AUGUSTUS AKHABUE AIKHOMU (1939-2011)
Friday September 09, 2011 Nigeria has lost a committed patriot and dutiful gentleman officer in the death of former military Vice-President, Admiral Augustus Akhabue Aikhomu. The retired Naval Chief, who later became a politician, passed on in Lagos recently, after a brief illness. Since his death, notable Nigerians have paid him glowing tributes.
In his tribute to the deceased seaman, President Goodluck Jonathan said that 'Admiral Aikhomu's life was defined by the values of hard work and commitment, he was a conscientious and dutiful officer for his roles in the military and in the larger society.'
To Gen Ibrahim Babangida, Aikhomu's death has robbed him of 'a trusted, loyal and extremely reliable friend and brother'.
The Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, lamented that Nigeria has lost an important player in its political development in the last two decades. He described the late Edo State-born Naval Chief as 'one of those leading politicians in Edo politics who offered goodwill and support, despite political differences with my government.'
Born on October 20, 1939 at Irrua, Ishan, Edo State, the deceased began his early education at Irrua Government School. He was at Yaba Technical Institute (now Yaba College of Technology) from 1954 - 1958.
Aikhomu enlisted into the Nigerian Navy on December 1, 1958. He was commissioned Sub-lieutenant, Nigeria Navy, 1964; Lieutenant, 1967; Commander, 1974, and Captain, 1977. He attended courses at Royal Britannia Naval College, Partmouth, England, Royal Naval Engineering College, Manadon, England, Long Gunnery Specialist Course India, 1969-70, Defence Services Staff Course, Wellington, India, 1973, and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.
He was the Commanding Officer, NNS Dorina, 1974-75; NNS Nigeria (now NNS Obuma), 1975-78 and Flag Officer Commanding Flotilla, 1978-80. Aikhomu was appointed the Chief of Naval Staff, 1984-1986 and became the Chief of General Staff (CGS) and Vice President from 1986-1993. He was awarded the national honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) in 1992 and was a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management.
Aikhomu will be remembered for his loyalty and patriotism to the Nigerian nation. He was instrumental to the creation of the present day Edo State. The deceased made enormous contributions to the Nigerian Navy, which he served for 35 years. He was credited for being responsible for the establishment of most Naval bases in the Delta area, including the Naval Air Station in Lagos.
Aikhomu was the pillar behind the expansion the Navy has witnessed till date. It is regrettable that the deceased died at a time his wise counsel is being sought after.
We commiserate with the Federal Government, Edo State, the Navy, and Aikhomu's family for the irreparable loss. May God grant his soul eternal repose.