The late Princess Rebecca Ehovbayi Aikhomu (née Madojemu) has been eulogised by family members, friends, and in-laws as a woman who lived an exemplary life of service to humanity and unwavering devotion to God.
Speaking at a Commendation Holy Communion Service held in her honour at the Cathedral Church of the Pentecost, Festac Town, Lagos, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the late Dame Aikhomu as a woman who understood that leadership is not merely a privilege but a profound responsibility.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said Dame Rebecca Aikhomu lived a life that reflected patience, humility, selfless service, and generosity—virtues the society urgently needs today.
He described her life as a remarkable journey marked by faith, dignity, and enduring service.
According to the governor, Dame Aikhomu’s generosity and influence were not limited to her immediate family but extended widely across the church and the community.
He noted that her life continues to inspire younger generations, particularly women, as evidence that character, consistency, and faith remain the true markers of a godly Christian life.
In a sermon titled “Salvation: How Do I Know That I Am Safe?”, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos Southwest (Anglican Communion), Rt. Reverend Ebenezer Ajayi Adewole, reminded the congregation that all humans have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
The cleric urged the congregation, including the children of the deceased and guests, to recognise that human intentions alone cannot satisfy God, stressing the need for a life dedicated to service to God and humanity.
He emphasised that salvation comes only through confessing Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, noting that such confession brings a complete break from one’s past.
Rt. Rev. Adewole further eulogised Princess Aikhomu as a woman whose life was worthy of emulation, rooted in faith and service.
On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by the Admiral Superintendent of the Navy, Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu, said the Nigerian Navy would greatly miss Dame Aikhomu’s wise counsel, deep knowledge of naval history, and her invaluable guidance to past and present Presidents of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the eldest daughter, Susan, described her late mother as a caring and disciplined woman of immense value.
She said she would deeply miss her mother’s care, discipline, and the strong sense of love and passion she instilled in the family.
The commendation service was attended by prominent members of society, including serving and retired military and paramilitary officers, captains of industry, and business leaders.
Dignitaries present included Rear Admiral Paul Ponfa Nimmyel of NNS Beecroft, Commander 9 Brigade Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi, and former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Afolayan.
Following the service, the remains of Dame Rebecca Aikhomu were conveyed in a motorcade to the airport en route to Benin City, ahead of her burial in Esan land, Edo State.
Dame Rebecca Aikhomu died at the age of 85.
She was the wife of the former Chief of General Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, late Vice Admiral Augustus Aikhomu.
She served in the Nigerian Army and retired with the rank of Captain.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and in-laws.
Reporting by Mary Fatile