Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, on Tuesday joined top naval officers, political leaders and other dignitaries at the Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, for a solemn Service of Songs in honour of the late Dame Rebecca Aikhomu.
Also in attendance were the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard Limited (ASNDL), Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu; former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George; retired Major-General Ike Nwachukwu; and the deceased’s son-in-law and Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Rear Admiral Paul Nimmyel, alongside other senior naval officers, family members, friends and associates.
The gathering was held to pay glowing tributes to Dame Aikhomu, widow of the late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, former Chief of General Staff and Vice President of Nigeria, who passed away on Tuesday, December 11, 2025, after a brief illness. Her death occurred barely four months after she marked her 85th birthday in August.
During the service, children, grandchildren and well-wishers shared heartfelt testimonies, describing the late matriarch as a woman of deep Christian faith, compassion and uncommon dedication to service, whose influence extended far beyond her immediate family.
Delivering the homily, the officiating minister, Reverend Abednego Okpala, urged the bereaved family and mourners to take comfort in God, reminding them that life is fleeting and often filled with trials, but finds meaning through total submission to God’s will.
Quoting from John 14:6 and Job 14:1, the cleric emphasised the transient nature of human life and Christ’s assurance that believers should not allow their hearts to be troubled. He noted that death and other challenges are inevitable, but peace and joy come from trusting God amidst uncertainty.
Reverend Okpala further stressed that purposeful living is essential, warning that “speed without direction is dangerous.” He added that the word of God provides guidance and sanctification when human wisdom fails, while also reminding the congregation of the hope of resurrection and accountability before God.
He observed that the tributes paid to Dame Aikhomu reflected a life devoted to generosity and service, noting that such virtues form a lasting legacy that outlives death.
The service concluded with prayers for the family and an altar call, as mourners were encouraged to dedicate their time, talents and resources to God and to live purpose-driven lives inspired by the values exemplified by the late Dame Rebecca Aikhomu.
