The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, describing Nigeria’s loss as that of one of its most visionary leaders.
He called Chief Ogbeh’s death an irreparable blow to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation efforts and its national development trajectory.
Speaking on Monday during a condolence visit to the late minister’s family, led by President Bola Tinubu’s delegation, the Vice President highlighted that Chief Ogbeh’s contributions to food security and rural development will forever be remembered in Nigeria’s history.
Senator Shettima eulogised the elder statesman, who died peacefully on Saturday at the age of 78, as one of the great leaders whose dedication to agricultural renewal impacted millions of farming families across the country.
“We are here on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, the government, and the people of Benue State over the sad loss of our elder statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
“We have lost not just a former minister, but an irreplaceable institution whose vision and pragmatic approach transformed Nigeria’s farming communities,” Senator Shettima said.
He described Chief Ogbeh as a transformational leader whose legacy transcended political and regional lines, noting that his work in Nigeria’s pursuit of food security offers a blueprint for sustainable agricultural development.
The Vice President praised Chief Ogbeh’s integrity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Nigerian farmers and rural communities.
“He was a passionate advocate for agricultural transformation, admired for his wisdom, pragmatism, and genuine care for farming families. His passing is a significant loss to the entire agricultural sector,” VP Shettima added.
Offering prayers for the repose of Chief Ogbeh’s soul, the Vice President expressed confidence that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of agricultural practitioners and policymakers.
“We are comforted by the many lives he touched and the enduring example he set. His legacy of integrity, service, and dedication to our nation will continue to guide our agricultural transformation efforts,” Senator Shettima remarked.
“I pray that Almighty Allah will forgive his shortcomings and grant 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,” the Vice President added.
