Former Governor Dies At 75

General Godwin Abbe, a prominent Nigerian military officer and politician who served as military governor of Akwa Ibom State has passed away at the age of 75.

His family confirmed his death, noting that he would have turned 76 on January 10, 2025.

Born on January 10, 1949, General Godwin Abbe had a distinguished career spanning the military and political spheres. He attended United Baptist School and Iguodala Secondary Modern School in Benin City before continuing his education at Kiriji Memorial College in Igbajo and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He joined the Nigerian Army in July 1967 and rose through the ranks, undergoing extensive military training both locally and abroad.

General Abbe’s military journey began as a Lance Corporal in 1967, quickly rising to Lieutenant by 1969 and later serving as a Battalion Commander. By 1971, he became a Captain, and in 1975, he was promoted to Major. His dedication led him to serve as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy and as Staff Officer Grade I at the 2 Divisional Headquarters. He also served as a Directing Staff member at the Senior Division of the Command and Staff College in Jaji.

In 1980, Abbe became the first Nigerian Directing Staff seconded to the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College, earning promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in 1983 and Colonel in 1986. He later commanded the 2nd Mechanised Division Garrison in Ibadan and served as Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 1988 to 1990. His military decorations included the Forces Service Star (FSS) Medal.

Recognized as one of Nigeria’s most decorated military officers from Edo State, General Abbe held significant leadership positions, including General Officer Commanding the 2nd Division of the Nigerian Army, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and Commander of the National Defence College.

After retiring from the military in 1999 as a Major General, Abbe transitioned into politics. He was appointed Minister of Interior on July 26, 2007, and later served as Minister of Defence from July 14, 2009, to March 17, 2010. He also chaired the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.

General Godwin Abbe’s death marks the end of an era for a man who left a profound impact on Nigeria’s military and political history.

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