A former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has said Nigerians owe the late former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Ufot Ekaette, debt of gratitude for his contribution to nation building.

He said the deceased worked hard to make Nigeria united at a time when he had the choice of joining the nation’s enemies to attack it.

According to a statement on Tuesday, Gowon said this in Abuja when he and his wife, Victoria, paid a condolence visit to Ekaette’s widow, Eme, and her children.

“As I look back today and remember all that Ekaette did while we worked together for Nigeria, I feel that Nigerians owe him a debt of gratitude for his sacrifice to the country.

“He gave his all to make Nigeria a strong and united nation at a time it was very convenient to simply walk away and join her foes to shoot darts at her,” Gowon was quoted as saying of Ekaette who served as his principal private secretary between 1968 and 1975.

The former military leader described the deceased as exceptionally brilliant and highly patriotic, adding that he was loyal in the discharge of his work as a public servant.

Gowon said, “Ufot Ekaette was one of my most brilliant, dedicated and committed officers that I really cherish even till today.

“He was exceptional in the discharge of his duties. I can say that he was my trusted ally whose judgment on public and private matters I also trusted at all times.”

Ekaette died recently at the age of 80.