President Goodluck Jonathan has extolled the virtues of former Chief of General Staff (CGS) late Admiral Mike Akhigbe, describing him as an exemplary officer and gentleman, consumate administrator who displayed outstanding leadership.

The president who spoke through his deputy, Vice-President Namadi Sambo during the funeral service of late Akhigbe at his home town, Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, however, expressed hope that his sterling qualities would inspire Nigerians to be more committed and provide greater service to the country.

 The President therefore prayed God to grant the wife and family of the former Chief of Naval Staff strength to cope.

Earlier in a homily, Rev. Fr. Innocent Okifoh said Christian burial was for spiritual support of the soul of the death and to honour the living.

Senate President, Senator David Mark described the departed Vice-Admiral as very humble man who thought more of Nigeria, adding that he was the rallying point for all the members of the 3 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy(NDA).
He urged the children to follow the footsteps of their father.

In his comment, Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams expressed gratitude to God for what He used Akhigbe to do for the country, Edo State and for himself.
“There are many things Nigerians can learn from Akhigbe. One lesson from Admiral is that it is not how long you stay in power that would define what you do”.  He therefore praised the honesty of purpose and courage of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar and Admiral Akhigbe in handing over power to civilians within a short time.

Among dignitaries who attended the funeral ceremony were former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar and his wife, Jutsice Fatti Abubbakar; past State Military Administrators, past and present members of the National Assembly, Military top brass, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Chief Tony Anenih, Governor Segun Mimiko of Ondo State and Representatives of Governors of Lagos and Ekiti States.