Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Monday in Abuja led a delegation on behalf of President Bola Tinubu to condole with the family of the late former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
Shettima described Ogbeh’s death as an irreparable loss to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation drive and national development, noting that his contributions to food security and rural growth would remain indelible in the country’s history.
The elder statesman, who passed away peacefully on Saturday at the age of 78, was eulogised by the Vice-President as a visionary leader whose legacy positively impacted millions of farming families nationwide.
“We are here at the behest of President Bola Tinubu to convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, the government, and the people of Benue State over the sad demise of our elder statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
“We have not just lost a former minister; we have lost an irreplaceable institution whose vision and pragmatic approach to agricultural development transformed the landscape of our farming communities,” Shettima said.
He described Ogbeh as a transformational leader whose influence transcended political and regional boundaries, adding that his work in the agricultural sector remains a blueprint for sustainable development and food security.
According to Shettima, the late minister was marked by integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Nigerian farmers and rural dwellers.
“His demise represents a collective loss to our entire agricultural ecosystem,” he added.
While praying for the repose of Ogbeh’s soul, Shettima expressed confidence that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations of agricultural practitioners and policymakers.
“I pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Aljannah Firdaus. May Allah also grant the family, the government and people of Benue State, and indeed the entire nation, the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.
