Audu Ogbeh’s death mourned by President Tinubu and VP Shettima, who describe him as a visionary leader in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation
Audu Ogbeh’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from Nigeria’s leadership, as President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima paid glowing tributes to the late statesman and former Minister of Agriculture.
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On Monday, Vice President Shettima led a presidential delegation on a condolence visit to the Ogbeh family home.
The delegation delivered the president’s heartfelt condolences, describing Chief Audu Ogbeh as “one of Nigeria’s most visionary leaders.”
The visit was confirmed in a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President).
Chief Ogbeh, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 78, served Nigeria across various administrations, including as Minister of Communications during the Second Republic and later as Minister of Agriculture under President Muhammadu Buhari.
He was also a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the elder statesman, highlighting his trailblazing contributions to national development, particularly in agriculture.
“We have not just lost a former minister; we have lost an irreplaceable institution,” Vice President Shettima said during the visit.
Shettima described Ogbeh as a transformational figure in Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance, whose policy innovations helped shape the lives of millions of farming families.
“His legacy transcends political affiliations and regional boundaries,” the Vice President added.
“His approach was marked by integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to rural development.”
The late Ogbeh was praised for championing food security, sustainable farming practices, and rural empowerment.
“His work represents a blueprint for sustainable agricultural development,” Shettima noted, emphasizing that Audu Ogbeh’s death is a loss not only to Benue State but to Nigeria’s entire agricultural ecosystem.
In his tribute, Shettima prayed for the repose of Ogbeh’s soul and comfort for his family, stating:
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. His legacy of integrity, service, and dedication will continue to inspire future generations.”
Ogbeh’s passing has reverberated across Nigeria’s political and agricultural sectors, with leaders from across party lines honoring his statesmanship, visionary leadership, and dedication to national progress.
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As the country mourns the loss of a giant in public service, Shettima assured the family and the nation that Ogbeh’s values and contributions will remain a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development story.
