The Federal Government has renamed the Federal University in Ndufu Alike Ikwo Ebonyi State, as Alex Ekwueme University.
Ekwueme who was Nigeria’s vice-president between October 1979 and December 1983, died on 19th of November 2017 at 85 years.
Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo announced the honour at the funeral rites for the former vice-president at St John of the Divine Church, Oko Anambra state.
Osinbajo disclosed that Ekwueme was being immortalised for his selfless service, integrity, and contributions to national development.
He described Ekwueme as a true Nigerian icon and statesman whose life and times were worthy of celebration adding that the deceased showed bravery in the face of terror and set an excellent example of loyalty as a vice president.
According to him, ‘’Ekwueme wasn’t only being remembered as an accomplished scholar, or for his architectural prowess or for having occupied high public offices but because he practiced eternal principles that set men and women apart from their peers whether they were poor or rich’’.
Meanwhile, In his sermon, Primate Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas Okoh, has described Ekwueme’s burial ceremony as a crusade rather than a funeral service.
While speaking on Ekwueme’s good Christian upbringing, Okoh enjoined Nigerians to emulate his public service, educational accomplishments, and virtues.
He added that Ekwueme was a man of principles, personal sacrifice for others and service to those who cannot reward him.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion include Secretary to the Federal Government, Mr. Boss Mustapha, former Vice president Alhaji Namadi Sambo and 10 serving governors. Others were Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National President of Ohanaeze, Chief John Nwodo, former president Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience, and others.
