Mbazulike Amechi, Nigeria’s first aviation minister, dies at 93

Mbazulike Amechi, the country’s first minister of aviation, is dead.

The First Republic minister died at 93.

In a statement, Ezeana Tagbo Amechi, his son, said the politician died in the early hours of Tuesday.

“With total deference to the will of the Almighty God, the Ume Amaechi, Ezeana Ihidede families and Umu Mmara kindred of Amihe Ukpor in Nnewi south local government area of Anambra State announce the peaceful transition of our illustrious son, father and grandfather, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi,” the statement reads.

“We thank God for the fulfilled life that he lived, the lives he touched and service to God and country.”

The politician was among those who fought for Nigeria’s independence from Britain.

Before he was appointed minister in 1962, Amechi was elected into the house of representatives in 1959.