The Benue State Government has officially announced the passing of Colonel Joseph Akaagerger (Rtd), a distinguished former Military Administrator of Katsina State, who died on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 69.
The announcement was conveyed through a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Mr. Tersoo Kula, and made available to the media on Tuesday. The government expressed profound sorrow over the demise of the elder statesman, describing his death as a great loss not only to Benue State but to Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Alia, reacting to the sad news, described the late Akaagerger as a patriotic Nigerian who served the country with dedication and integrity both in military and civilian capacities. According to him, the former Katsina State military governor distinguished himself as a disciplined officer and later, as a politician whose contributions to national development, especially in the areas of governance, lawmaking, and community development, were deeply impactful.
Col. Akaagerger was appointed the Military Administrator of Katsina State during the regime of General Sani Abacha in the mid-1990s, a period marked by strict military rule and a focus on maintaining national cohesion. His tenure was remembered for its relative stability and firm leadership during turbulent times in the nation’s history.
Beyond his military service, the late Colonel ventured into politics and represented Benue North-West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). During his time in the Senate, he served on several key committees and was known for advocating development projects, especially in the areas of infrastructure and rural empowerment across Benue State.
Governor Alia highlighted that Akaagerger’s legacy extended beyond politics and governance, pointing to his active involvement in philanthropy and community upliftment efforts. He was often seen supporting education, youth empowerment, and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the less privileged in his native Benue State.
The Governor offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the late soldier-turned-lawmaker and urged the Akaagerger family, friends, and associates to take solace in the life of service he lived. He further described his death as a reminder of the need for today’s leaders to live purposefully and selflessly.
As the state prepares to bid farewell to one of its respected sons, tributes continue to pour in from across the country, honoring Col. Akaagerger’s contributions to Nigeria’s unity, security, and democratic growth.