The remains of the former Director of Press and Information (DOPRI) Nigerian Airforce Air Commodore Wapkerem Martins Maigida has been laid to rest at his hometown Nyak, Ajikamai, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The funeral rites started with a mass at the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church Nyak officiated by the Vicar-General of the Shendam Diocese Very Rev. Fr Raymond Gofut.
The Vicar said death is an event that everyone must keep a date with irrespective of status, background or privilege.
He said the testimonials about late Air Commodore Wapkerem Maigida are encouraging because he was a man of compassion who did his best to impact the lives of others through practical love.
Governor Lalong said the death of Martins Maigida is a huge loss to the family as was a team player who contributed to the progress of his immediate community and the church.
While thanking the Nigerian Airforce for supporting them during the period of grief, the Governor said the legacies of Wapkerem in the Nigerian Airforce will remain indelible because of his loyalty, patriotism and diligence.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshall Oladayo Amao represented by Air Vice Marshall Paul Masiyer said the Airforce has missed a great officer and gentleman who was committed to his duties in the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He assured the widow and children of the deceased that the Airforce will not leave them because of the death of their father, assuring that it will ensure that they benefit from all its welfare programmes.
Speaking on behalf of his course mates of the 42nd Regular Course, Navy Commodore Ike said the death of Air Commodore Wapkerem is a painful experience for them as people who shared their early lives in the military career together and have grown to be brothers and comrades working for the peace and progress of the country.
The Long Gamai of Gamailand HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III described the death of Air Commodore Wapkerem as a great loss to the Gamai nation and also praised him for giving honour and pride to his homeland.
After the funeral mass, his remains were later laid to rest at the family compound.
