Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has mourned the passing of Hosa Okunbo, the Nigerian born native of Edo State, who was until his death, was a business magnate, an investor, a philanthropist and a trained commercial pilot.
Okunbo, who was confirmed dead night of Saturday August 7, 2021, in London England, was said to have died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 63.
Reports gathered revealed that Captain Okunbo’s health improved at a point, and that he was planning to come for the coronation of the new Olu of Warri, Tsola Emiko who married his daughter, Ivie.
Governor Obaseki, in his tributes to Captain Hosa Okunbo said he was “a philanthropist who gave lavishly of himself and his resources.
The Governor added that, “thousands of Edo sons and daughters benefited from his charitable works and benevolence during his lifetime.
Captain Okunbo, at 21, became a pilot after his graduation from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Training Centre in Zaria, Kaduna State. He later retired from working as a pilot when he was 30 and ventured into business.
Edo State Governor said this of late Captain, “A trained pilot, he conquered the air at an early age and set for the waters and land, building enterprises that distinguished him in the business world and embodied the hard work, perseverance, dexterity and acumen that espoused his Edo heritage.
Obaseki added that Okunbo was, a man of unparalleled energy and accomplishments, who saw opportunities in adversity; and from an early age in life, carved a niche for himself to become one of Nigeria’s most outstanding businessmen.
The Governor did not also fail to add that, “His desire for the development and progress of our dear state, the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as well as his invaluable contributions to building bridges of peace across the country will never be forgotten.
The Edo state Governor Obaseki therefore, commiserated with the Okunbo’s family, his friends and associates and the good people of Edo State, over the death of the man with feathers. He prayed that God grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Captain Nosa Okunbo was said to have died surrounded by his family members. He was survived by a wife and children.