BRAKING: Nigerian Former Minister Is Dead

The late general’s educational journey included attending United Baptist School in Benin City (1953-1960), Iguodala Secondary Modern School (1961), and Kiriji Memorial College in Igbajo, Oyo State. He later pursued studies at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, before enlisting in the Nigerian Army in July 1967. His military training included courses at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna, the U.S. Army Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College in Teshie between 1972 and 1980.

Starting his career as a Lance Corporal in 1967, Abbe quickly rose through the ranks. By 1969, he became a Lieutenant and later a Battalion Commander (1969-1972). In 1971, he was promoted to Captain and served as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna from 1974 to 1976. He advanced to Major in 1975 and later became a Staff Officer Grade I at the 2 Divisional Headquarters. From 1979 to 1980, he served as Directing Staff at the Senior Division of the Command and Staff College in Jaji.

Abbe made history as the first Nigerian to serve as a Directing Staff at the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College from 1980 to 1982. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1983 and Colonel in 1986, before becoming the Commander of the 2nd Mechanised Division Garrison in Ibadan. In 1988, he was appointed Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State, a position he held until 1990.

A decorated officer, General Abbe received numerous accolades, including the Forces Service Star (FSS) Medal in 1985. His extensive military career included serving as General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2nd Division of the Nigerian Army, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and Commander of the National War College, now the National Defence College. He retired from active military service in 1999 with the rank of Major General.

In 2007, General Abbe was appointed Minister of Interior and later served as Minister of Defence from 2009 to 2010. He also held the position of Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.