Eduok: Buhari mourns as Nigeria loses ex-Chief of Air Staff

President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the family of former Minister of Aviation, and 12th Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Nsikak-Abasi Essien Eduok.

Eduok died aged 73 on Wednesday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In a Friday statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the president described the ex-minister’s death as a huge loss to the nation, particularly all those he inspired and mentored in tactical air operations.

“The President joins the military in mourning the passing of the highly decorated former officer, who spent more than two decades updating his pilot skills in the United Kingdom, United States and then Soviet Union, returning to the country to share his experience with colleagues and younger officers.

“President Buhari commiserates with government and people of Akwa Ibom State, friends and associates of the deceased, affirming that he lived a life of service to the nation and humanity, with distinguished results in all endeavours.

“The President prays for the repose of his soul and for God’s comfort over the family,” the statement further read.