Nigeria’s Former Chief of Air Staff Nsikak Eduok Is Dead

Nigeria’s former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Nsikak Eduok (Rtd), has died at age 73 years, family and aides confirm.

According to Premium Times, Eduok died on Wednesday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In a statement signed and issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, on Thursday, Eduok died after battling an end-stage kidney failure.

Ekuwem described Eduok as an elder statesman that would be missed because of his contribution to the development of the state and the nation at large.

“The Government of Akwa Ibom State hereby formally announces the death of a former Chief of Air Staff and former Minister of Aviation, Air Marshall Nsikak Eduok(Rtd).

“He died yesterday, 6th January, 2021 in Uyo.

“The information from his doctors indicate that he died of end-stage kidney failure.

“The late elder statesman was a very respected Nigerian and Akwa Ibomite who contributed greatly to the development of our country and state.

“His Excellency the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, is greatly grieved by the news of his death and extends his condolences to the bereaved family.

“May his gentle soul rest in peace. Amen,” he stated.

The late air marshal enlisted into the Nigeria Air Force in 1968 and became the 12th Chief of Army Staff on August 27, 1993, an appointment that was reversed a week later by the then military government.

He was reappointed Chief of Air Staff on March 30, 1996 by General Sani Abacha.

Mr Eduok retired from the Nigerian military in 1999. He was reputed to be one of the best-trained combat pilots the Nigerian Air Force has produced.