MINNA – The Northern States Governors Forum on Monday described late Rilwanu Lukman as a great son of the region who served Nigeria diligently.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Spokesman of the forum, Mr Israel Ebije, in Minna.
“The forum is shocked over the death of former Secretary-General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and one time Petroleum Minister, Dr Rilwanu Lukman.
“Lukman was Nigeria’s gift to the world and his intellectual inputs to the petroleum sector and science as a whole is indelible.
“Lukman, as Petroleum Minister, introduced sound policies and blueprint for exploration activities in line with international best practices.
“Lukman was a first class Nigerian, we must learn from his patriotism, integrity, honesty, discipline and dedication to duty and love for all irrespective of tribe, ideological or religious differences.’’
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According to the statement, Lukman considered Nigeria first before thinking of personal or sectional interest.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, has also expressed shock and sadness over the death of Lukman.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam, Tambuwal described the deceased as a thorough-bred technocrat, who served his country diligently at home and abroad.
He said Lukman would be remembered for his sterling performance as OPEC President between 1986 and 1994 and the Secretary-General between 1994 and the year 2000.
According to the Speaker, Lukman is a pioneer authority, whose deep knowledge of the petroleum and gas sub-sector led to the formulation of various policies that impacted positively on Nigeria.
“He was one Nigerian who was respected globally for his diligence, creativity, honesty and commitment to duty.
“We will miss a global ambassador, who did his best for his fatherland whenever called upon to serve.’’
He prayed to the almighty Allah to give the family the fortitude to bear the loss.(NAN)
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