Minister of Works Dave Umahi has joined Governor Francis Nwuifuru to mourn the passage of the first Military Administrator of Ebonyi State, Navy Captain Walter Aye Feghabo (Rtd.).
Feghabo, who passed away on October 19, 2025, at 69, was appointed the pioneer Military Administrator of Ebonyi State shortly after its creation in 1996.
He governed the young State between October 1996 and August 1998 before proceeding to serve as Military Administrator of Delta State until May 1999.
In a statement, Umahi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the retired naval officer.
Umahi described him as a disciplined leader and patriotic Nigerian whose courage, professionalism, and commitment to service left indelible marks in Nigeria’s administrative history.
“The life and times of late Navy Captain Feghabo reflected the core values of his professional calling. He shall be remembered for his sense of courage and commitment to the Navy’s core leadership competencies — accomplishing the mission, leading people, leading transformation, working with the people, and resource stewardship,” Umahi stated.
He noted that Feghabo’s tenure as the first Military Administrator of Ebonyi State provided the foundational leadership that inspired growth, direction, and stability for successive administrations.
The Minister extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the Nigerian Navy, and the Government and people of Bayelsa State, praying for the repose of his soul.
Nwifuru, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, described the passing of the pioneer Military Administrator as a “colossal loss to the nation.”
The Governor lauded Feghabo’s vision, patriotism, and discipline, noting that he played a historic role in shaping the destiny of Ebonyi State at its inception.
“When Ebonyi State was created in 1996, Navy Captain Feghabo took up the historic responsibility of giving direction, hope, and administrative structure to a fledgling state emerging from two parent states.
“With courage, foresight, hindsight, and selflessness, he nurtured the dreams of our founding fathers and set the tone for the development trajectory we are building upon today,” the Governor stated.
Nwifuru further praised the late Feghabo’s humility, passion for national unity, and commitment to public service, describing them as enduring virtues that will continue to inspire generations of Ebonyi people.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Ebonyi State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government and people of Bayelsa State, and the Nigerian Navy for the loss of this gallant officer, visionary leader, and nation builder,” the Governor said. Ends