Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has described the widow of the late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu as an embodiment of patience, humility, selfless service and generosity.
Sanwo-Olu gave this description on Friday during a commendation and holy communion service in honour of the widow, Rebecca, at the Cathedral Church of the Pentecost, Festac Town, Lagos.
The governor was represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mr Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rebecca was born on Aug. 4, 1940. She died on Dec. 11, 2025, at the age of 85 years.
She served in the Nigerian Army and retired as a Captain.
Sanwo-Olu said that her life set an example to the younger generations, especially women, that character, consistency and faith were virtues and evidence of a godly christian life.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I commend Mama for a life well lived, a christian family safely upheld, and a legacy that continues to inspire.
“We celebrate not only the length of her years, but the depth of her impact and the clarity of her witness.
“May the Almighty God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, continue to grant her soul eternal rest and let his perpetual light continually shine upon her gentle soul,” he said.
The governor said that the late captain lived a life that showed that true greatness was not found in power or position, but in lives upheld and values defended.
“May her legacy continue to inspire all those she left behind and generations yet to come.
“May her memory endure. God bless her gentle soul with eternal rest and peace,” he said.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos SouthWest, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ebenezer Adewole, said that Rebecca lived a life of service to God and humanity.
Adewole said that she would be remembered for her selfless service to humanity.
“When I came in as a bishop in November 20, 2025, she was the first person I called for visitation.
“On the day I was prepared to visit her, I called her to tell her that I was on my way but Mummy had already gone out for charity to the orphanage and those in need in the society.
“I had to cancel my trip and reschedule for another day because she was busy doing the things of the Lord which is very commendable and admirable,” he said.
Adewole said that three major things should be found in the life of anyone, who had truly accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ.
According to him, they are: a deep break with the past, a growing relationship with Jesus through the Holy Spirit and a life of service to God and humanity.
“Mummy had these three things; no wonder her life was a blessing.
“Now her chapter has closed but people will keep saying good things about her because of the life she lived,” Adewole said.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, said that Rebecca would be greatly missed as a former President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA).
Abbas was represented by the Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard Ltd., Rear Adm. Ibrahim Shehu.
“There has always been a long affiliation between the Nigerian Navy and the Aikhomu family.
“We will miss her wise counsel, her rich knowledge of navy history and all the warm advice she had been giving to all the past and present presidents of NOWA,” Abbas said.
Rebecca’s eldest daughter, Susan, said that her mother was a woman of inestimable value.
Susan said her mother would be missed for the love she showed on her children and her extended family, as well as her charitable works.
“My mum was a disciplinarian who converted into a mentor and a friend.
“She taught us about God, about service to mankind and other beautiful lessons.
“She will be greatly missed,” Susan said.
