President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday expressed shock and grief over the death of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Ufot Ekaette.
He described the late Ekaette as “a consummate administrator and bridge builder”.
News of the former SGF demise emerged on Thursday, though details as to when and where he died are still unclear.
He aged 80 years.
In a condolence message to the family and friends of Ekaette issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Thursday, Buhari noted that the deceased “dedicated himself to duty in the course of his distinguished public service.”
Ekaette was appointed SGF in May 1999 by then President Olusegun Obasanjo and served in that position for the two terms of eight years that Obasanjo held sway.
President Buhari described late Ekaette as a gentleman who had given his best in the service of his country.
While consoling the deceased family, the government and people of Akwa Ibom over the death, the President assured that the deceased would always be remembered for his remarkable public service record and notable contributions towards bringing peace in the Niger Delta region.
He expressed regret that the former SGF passed on “at a time when voices like his own are needed to move Nigeria forward in the face of daunting challenges.”
The President prayed God to comfort the Ekaette family, friends and relations, and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.
Mr Ekaette, was once a deputy governor of Akwa Ibom state during the military Era.
After serving as SGF, he served as the first minister of the Niger Delta Affairs ministry during the administration of late President Umaru Yar’Adua.
