Twelve Years in Remembrance of Mike Akhigbe; His Legacy of Courage & Exemplary Service

By Barth Ikiebe with Reports from Associates

Today marks twelve years since Nigeria lost one of its finest patriots and most visionary leader, late Vice Admiral Mike Okhai Akhigbe, GCON.
A soldier, statesman, lawyer, democrat and nation-builder, Akhigbe’s life remains a shining example of courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to the ideals of unity and democracy.

His democratic ideals, strong sense of justice, and belief in Nigeria’s potential continue to resonate, especially in these trying times marked by leadership challenges and security threats. His voice, calm yet commanding, was one of reason and conviction. His wealth of knowledge, experience, and patriotic service will forever remain a reference point in our nation’s journey toward good governance and stability.

Though he is gone, the family, friends and well wishers are consoled that Vice Admiral Akhigbe lived a full life dedicated to God and humanity. His legacy of leadership and service is a testament to his strength of character, sound judgment, and inclusive spirit. Through good and difficult times alike, he never lost his warmth, humor, and compassion. His energy, devotion, and relentless pursuit of national progress earned him admiration across all walks of life.

Akhigbe’s footprints are indelibly etched in Nigeria’s history. He served his Community, Fugar and Edo State as well as the nation faithfully — in military command, public administration, and political leadership. His courage, integrity, and love for Nigeria defined his every action. Indeed, Okhai lives on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege to know him or benefit from his selfless service.

It is only fitting that both the Federal Government and the States he served should take deliberate steps to immortalize his name, as a mark of appreciation for a man who gave so much to his country.

His Life of Service and Dedication – Born on September 29, 1946, in Fugar, Etsako-Central Local Government Area, Edo State, Mike Akhigbe’s journey was marked by discipline and excellence. He attended Afemai Anglican Grammar School, Igarra (1961–1965) and later worked at the Federal Office of Statistics, Kaduna, before gaining admission to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1967 as a member of Course 3.

Commissioned into the Nigerian Navy in April 1970, his distinguished career saw him served in several key positions:
Commanding Officer, NNS Sapele (1973–1975)

Navigating Officer, NNS Nigeria (now NNS Obuma) (1975)

Command Operations Officer, Eastern Naval Command, Calabar.

Executive Officer, Naval Bases in Calabar and Port Harcourt (1975–1978)

Promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 1977, Akhigbe continued to distinguish himself in both command and staff appointments.

As Military Governor of Ondo State (1986–1987) and later Lagos State (1987–1988), he served with distinction. His tenure saw impactful projects such as the Third Mainland Bridge and the Teslim Balogun Stadium, both of which remain enduring testaments to his vision for infrastructural and social development.

He later served as Director of Planning, Naval Headquarters (1988–1989), Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command (1993), and Chief of Naval Staff (1994–1998). His career culminated in his appointment as Chief of General Staff (CGS) — the nation’s number two position — from June 1998 to May 1999, during which he played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful transition to democratic rule on May 29, 1999.

Scholar, Statesman, and Democrat –
A lifelong learner, Akhigbe attended several prestigious institutions at home and abroad, including:
Midshipman Naval Weapons Technology & Operations Courses (Italy, Holland, UK, Germany, 1972–73)

Royal Naval School of Maritime Operations, Southwick, UK (1974)

Université de Poitiers, Royan, France (Diploma in French, 1978–79)

Command and Staff College, Jaji (1982–83)

National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru (1989)

After retirement, he furthered his education with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Lagos, attended the Nigerian Law School, and was called to the Bar. He later earned a Master of Laws (LL.M) in International Maritime Law from the IMO International Maritime Institute, Malta, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations and Diplomacy.

His post-military life reflected his versatility — as a businessman with substantial real estate interests and as a maritime industry leader, serving as President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS) in 2010.

A founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akhigbe was deeply involved in the political evolution of the Fourth Republic. He was also a rallying figure for the Afenmai Forum, advocating for equity and representation for Edo North. He was also a strong pillar of support in his community’s socio-cultural groups like Fugar Progressive Union, FPU, and Etsako Club, to mention but few.

His Legacy of Courage and Integrity-
A recipient of Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Akhigbe embodied discipline, humility, and patriotism. A devoted Christian, he lived a life grounded in fairness, justice, and truth. He was known to speak truth to power — even at great personal risk. It was this great quality that guarded his position within the then military Council under the Abdulsalami’s Administration that the transition to civil rule should last for one year, rather than the five- year period canvassed by high ranking members of the military administration. Vice- Admiral Akhigbe eventually headed the transition to civil rule implementation committee in 1999.

Vice Admiral Mike Okhai Akhigbe passed away in the United States on October 28, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Though gone, his spirit endures especially in Fugar where he contributed in spearheading the infrastructural development and upgrade of the town to a local government headquarters. In every life he touched, every institution he strengthened, and every act of integrity he exemplified.

Akhigbe, who is survived by wife, Dr Mrs Josephine Akhigbe and children, will forever be remembered as one of the Champions of Democracy in Nigeria.

May his gentle and gallant soul continue to Rest in Peace.