Buhari Committed N1bn To Ekwueme’s Burial – Ngige

Dr. Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and Employment, says President Muhammadu Buhari has committed about N1 billion to the burial of former Vice President, late Dr. Alex Ekwueme.

Speaking on Sunday at Ekwueme’s hometown in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Ngige said President Buhari is committed to giving the former VP a befitting burial.

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The minister, who was in the state to inspect facilities for the burial, said the Federal Government was working round the clock to ensure Ekwueme family enjoys the role their late father played in building Nigeria.

Ngige further stated that the Federal Government was considering naming a national monument after Ekwueme to immortalise him.

He said, “You know that I belong to the Ekwueme family; I’m part of that family.

“I’m in various committees and subcommittees for the burial of this great statesman. I can tell you authoritatively that Mr President (Buhari) is committed and passionate in ensuring a befitting burial for Ekwueme.

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“If he doesn’t come for the burial himself, I’m sure the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, will be here for the burial as a matter of right.

“So, I’m here to inspect the facilities in preparation for his burial; and I can tell you that I’m satisfied with the progress of work.

“The Federal Government is doing rehabilitation works on Amawbia/Ekwulobia road, up to Uga and Akokwa in Imo State.

“We’re also doing road rehabilitation on Oko/Umunze road up to Ibinta in Abia State.

“I know the cost of all this, not less than N480m.

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“The Federal Government is building the mausoleum, which will contain a modern library and other facilities and I also know the cost of that too.

“And remember that the Federal Government took up all the medical bills of flying him abroad and bringing him back to Nigeria from London upon his death.

“The cost of hiring an air ambulance is not a joke. So, Buhari has honoured this Igbo son in all ramifications.

“He has committed not less than a billion naira in this project because he is passionate about it,” Ngige stated.

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