From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Chairman of Blue Diamond Logistics Limited, Mr Festus Mbisiogu, has expressed sadness over the passing of former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
In a condolence message on Saturday, Mbisiogu said the death of Ogbeh was a personal loss as the late politician was a mentor and motivator.
He recalled how Ogbeh encouraged him to come back from abroad and invest in the country, an advice that led him to establish an industry, bonded terminal, and other businesses that have employed many Nigerians and contributed to economic growth.
Mbisiogu described Ogbeh as a statesman, visionary leader, patriot, and nationalist, whose contributions caused socio-economic and political development in Nigeria.
The statement reads: “It is both an honour and a solemn duty to reflect personally on the extraordinary life and legacy of Chief Audu Ogbeh—a true statesman, visionary leader, and a man whose name is indelibly etched into the fabric of Nigeria’s political evolution and agricultural transformation.
“The passing of Chief Audu Ogbeh marks the end of an era. A statesman, reformer, nationalist, and patriot to the core, Chief Ogbeh’s legacy stands as a beacon of what selfless, visionary leadership looks like in service to one’s nation.
“Chief Audu Ogbeh was a father to me. He was my mentor, my guide, and my inspiration. He was one of those divinely positioned by God to support and encourage the establishment of my factory in Imo State. He believed in the Nigerian dream, and he believed in Nigerians—especially those in the diaspora willing to return and invest in our beloved country.
“I still recall how he persistently encouraged me to come back home to build, to invest, and to give back. He accompanied me to the Bank of Industry to initiate discussions on financial facilities and support structures—taking my hand like a true father would. He never sought personal gain; instead, he sought national gain. Chief Ogbeh always put Nigeria first, and he encouraged everyone around him to do the same.
“One of the most touching gestures that I will never forget was in 2014, when he left a scheduled campaign appearance in Borno State, during the heat of the elections, just to personally attend the ‘Igbo Person of the Year’ award ceremony, where I was being honoured. He not only attended—he stood tall on that stage and personally read my citation.
“Again in 2022, despite his advancing age, he flew from Abuja to Lagos to present me with the Sun Newspaper Industrialist of the Year Award. His presence was not merely ceremonial; it was deeply emotional and symbolic of his unwavering support for my journey.
“Even in his final days, Chief Ogbeh remained in touch. He always asked after my challenges, offered advice, and wanted to know how he could help. That was the kind of man he was: compassionate, generous, and selfless.
“As I reflect on his passing, I feel a deep personal loss. I have lost a father figure, a mentor, and a constant pillar of support. His wisdom, encouragement, and quiet strength will be missed not only by me, but by the countless others whose lives he touched across Nigeria and beyond.
“May his legacy of service, humility, and patriotism continue to inspire a new generation of Nigerian leaders.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
The post Ogbe: Nigeria has lost statesman, patriot – Mbisiogu appeared first on The Sun Nigeria.
