By Odita Sunday
The remains of former Chief of Account and Budget (Army), Major General Ezra Jakko (Rtd), were on Wednesday laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, with senior serving and retired military officers, family members and friends paying tribute to his years of service to the Nigerian Army.
Jakko, who died after a distinguished military career, was honoured with full military rites following a funeral service at the All Saints Military Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
Delivering the funeral oration on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Account and Budget (Army), Major General Taofik Temitope Sidick, described the late officer as a professional soldier whose career was marked by dedication, discipline and commitment to duty.
Sidick said Jakko was also known for building strong relationships across professional, social and religious divides, describing him as an exemplary leader whose leadership and instructional abilities influenced officers and soldiers who served and trained under him.
He particularly recalled Jakko’s contribution to human capacity development while serving as Chief Instructor and Acting Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Finance (NASFA).
According to him, Jakko’s knowledge, mentorship and leadership at the institution contributed to the professional development of numerous students.
Born on 15 August 1964 in Wule, Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Major General Jakko was commissioned into the Nigerian Army through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) as a Lieutenant on 4 October 1989.
He rose through the ranks during his military career to attain the rank of Major General before his retirement.
Earlier, a funeral service was held in his honour at the All Saints Military Protestant Church, where the officiating Minister, Apostle Emmanuel Kure, described the late officer as a generous and devoted servant of God who also dedicated himself to humanitarian service.
Apostle Kure said Jakko worked actively in the church and rose to become a Pastor and General Overseer of the Gospel Believers Mission.
He reminded the congregation of the transient nature of life and urged the bereaved family to draw strength from God and the memories of the late senior officer.
The funeral was attended by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Gabriel Olonisakin CFR (Rtd); former Chiefs of Army Staff, His Excellency, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai CFR Rtd and Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya CFR Rtd; serving and retired military officers; members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA); captains of industry, family members, friends and other dignitaries.
Major General Ezra Jakko was buried with full military honours at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja.
About the Author
