Buhari mourns former SGF, Ekaette

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed shock and grief over the death of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation,  Chief Ufot Ekaette, describing him as “a consummate administrator and bridge-builder”.

Buhari in a condolence message issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Thursday, noted that the deceased ”dedicated himself to duty in the course of his distinguished public service.”

Buhari said Ekaette was ”a gentleman” who gave “his best in the service of his country”.

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He condoled with the Ekaette family, the government and people of Akwa Ibom over the death, and assured them that the deceased would always be remembered for his remarkable public service record and immense contributions towards bringing peace in the once-troubled Niger Delta region.

The president expressed regret that “his demise comes at a time when voices like his own are needed to move Nigeria forward in the face of daunting challenges.”

He, however, gave assurance that Ekaette’s contributions would never be in vain as ”the country would always appreciate and remember his great contributions.”

The president prayed God to comfort the Ekaette family, friends and relations and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.

NAN