The Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has renamed the Heroes Square Stadium in Owerri after late Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu. Kanu was the first military administrator of old Imo State.
Uzodinma announced the renaming on Wednesday shortly after receiving the remains of Kanu at the Government House, Owerri, as part of his lying-in-state and commendation service.
The governor said that the decision was reached after due consultations, adding that the deceased was a prominent Igbo son who served his people, his state and the country diligently and that he was instrumental to the return of democracy in Nigeria.
The governor, who prayed God for the repose of his soul, also commiserated with the family for the loss and asked God to console them.
The remains were received at the airport by his family members, in the company of Imo government officials and top military personnel.
The state deputy governor, Professor Placid Njoku; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr Paul Emeziem and former Governor Ikedi Ohakim were among the dignitaries who witnessed the event.
The state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Dr Eches Divine Eches, described the deceased as a rare gem who believed and trusted God in all he did.
Admiral Awwal Zubairu-Gambo, Chief of Naval Staff, was represented by Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Rear Admiral Kennedy Egbuchulem, at the event.
Zubairu-Gambo described Kanu as a fine officer who served his country diligently.