By SALISU SANI-IDRIS

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has described the late first civilian Governor of Anambra, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, as a pillar of nationhood.

This is contained in a statement by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice-President, on Tuesday.

Shettima led the nation in mourning of Ezeife at a National Night of Tribute held in honour of the late elder statesman at the grand arena of the ThisDay Dome, Abuja.

The Vice-President also described the deceased as a visionary leader and a man of exceptional intellect.

He hailed late Ezeife as a “national colossus and a pillar of nationhood.”

Shettima, represented by Dr Aliyu Modibbo, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, Office of the Vice-President, commended Ezeife’s exceptional journey.

He highlights his rise from someone with no formal secondary education to a Ph.D. holder in Economics from Harvard.

While eulogising his statesmanship, Shettima lauded Ezeife’s leadership qualities, both in the Civil Service and as Anambra’s first civilian governor.

He acknowledged Ezeife’s focus on long-term planning for sustainable growth, even if it meant prioritising future development over immediate needs.

According to Shettima, Ezeife, fondly known as ‘Okwadike,’ was a true giant among men.

Shettima credited Ezeife with igniting a spirit of self-belief within the Igbo community, and championing their development through political and socio-cultural efforts.

“He was a mentor to many and always willing to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation.

“Ezeife was a testament to the power of resilience and an unwavering belief in the potential of our great nation.

“His legacy will be a beacon of hope, guiding us through the challenges that lie ahead.”

Earlier, the President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said that it was with a sense of grief but dignity in his heart that he was paying tribute to Dr Ezeife.

According to him, the deceased has done so much for Nigeria.

“He was a chief advocate of a federal Nigeria to achieve unity and national cohesion. He advocated for effective governance at the grassroots,” Akpabio said.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Sylvester Okonkwo, the Senate President said Ezeife believed that constructive engagement and mutual respect were essential for national unity.

He added that the late former governor of Anambra was a bridge builder.

“His ideas continue to influence decisions on how to structure Nigeria’s federal system.

“We cannot forget him in a hurry. It is a personal loss. I send my condolences to his wife and members of his immediate family,” he said. (NAN)