I met Navy Captain (RTD) Walter Feghabo in 1995, when he was a Commander and served as the Commanding Officer of Forward Operation Base (FOB) Ibaka, in Akwa Ibom State. At that time, I was the Immigration Officer in charge of the Ibaka Control Post, and our paths crossed professionally.
Before the creation of Ebonyi State, Walter Feghabo had been promoted to Navy Captain and was appointed its first Military Administrator. At the end of my tenure in Akwa Ibom State, I was posted to Ebonyi State as one of its pioneer immigration officers, and we reconnected.
Feghabo laid a strong foundation for good governance and initiated solid infrastructural developments that contributed to Ebonyi State’s early progress. His selfless dedication and passion for developing the state were evident in his swift actions upon taking office. The old Government lodge was immediately reconstructed as the Ebonyi State Government House. Road network and other infrastructural developments took off in earnest.
Ebonyi State, known as the ‘Salt of the Nation’, was ironically dubbed the ‘Dust of the Nation’ due to the heaty dust in the air within Abakaliki metropolis, a result of the massive road construction underway.
Feghabo had a proactive approach to supporting government agencies. One notable example of his commitment to public service was his instrumental support for the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ebonyi State Command. He generously provided the Comptroller with a residence at the Government Residential Area (GRA), off Ezza Road, and approved the allocation of land for the Command’s permanent site, significantly enhancing its operational capacity and improving efficiency.
He positively impacted the lives of his officers, civil servants, and pensioners, demonstrating his empathetic and inspirational leadership. Feghabo was admired and respected for his professionalism, courage, hard work, intelligence, altruism, and integrity”
After his tenure in Ebonyi State, Feghabo went on to serve as the Military Administrator of Delta State from August 1998 to May 1999.
He also served his Nembe community with distinction as the Alternate Chairman of the Nembe Council of Chiefs. Head Chief Amain. Kien, Alagoa, and Koki group of War Canoe Chieftaincy Houses of Nembe Kingdom. As we fiIourn the passing of this true prince among men, I am reminded of Shakespeare’s words: “When beggars die, there are no comets seen, but heavens themselves blaze fofth the death of princes.”Feghabo’s remarkable life and tregacy shine brightly, illuminating the heavens, as a testament to his selfless service, visionary leadership, and dedication to the greater good.
In the tapestry of life, your threads may be severed, but your impact remains. May your memory continue to inspire us a11,, especially our leaders, to use their positions to serve society, promote social change, drive socio-economic development, ensure the security of lives and properly, and leave a lasting legacy.
Rest on, brother.
Fare thee well.
Gilbert Ilogu, Ph.D
