by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The remains of the late Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Timbut Useni were ‘conferred’ with full military honors in his hometown in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State on Saturday.
The funeral, held on 22 February 2025, paid tribute to a man whose life was marked by dedicated service to Nigeria, both as a military leader and a senator.
The funeral began with a solemn Church Service at the COCIN Church in Langtang, where the Governor of Plateau, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, extolled the virtues of the late general. “Lt-Gen Useni was not just a soldier, but was a national icon who dedicated his life to the service of our country and humanity.”
While highlighting Useni’s legacy of development, progress, and stability in Plateau State, the governor further drew parallels to other esteemed figures from the state, such as General Bali, General Dogonyaro and General John Shagaya, emphasizing their collective contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development.
Governor Mutfwang also reflected on Useni’s later years, during which he prioritized reconciliation and forgiveness among the people of Plateau, saying, “There is no unity without forgiveness and reconciliation,” and encouraged the congregation to embody the spirit of compassion that Useni exemplified during his lifetime.
A prayer for the departed general concluded the service, with the governor assuring congregation that the impact of Useni’s work would remain etched in the hearts of the people.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General O.O. Oluyede. NAM, delivered a stirring funeral oration, emphasizing Useni’s noble character and dedication to service.
He was represented by Maj-Gen E.F. Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, who asserted that, “General Useni was a loving father, a caring husband, and a cherished grandfather. His commitment to both military service and public office was unwavering.”
Maj-Gen Oyinlola recounted Lt-Gen Useni’s impactful tenure as the Military Administrator of former Bendel State, where he implemented initiatives that advanced infrastructure, education, and social development.
The COAS further noted Useni’s vision as a leader, while recalling his implementation of local government self-help projects, which empowered communities to take an active role in governance and facilitated the completion of numerous developmental projects.
He stressed that, Useni’s advocacy for food production programs revitalized abandoned agricultural projects, significantly boosting food security and economic stability in the region.
Lieutenant General Useni served as a Senator, from 2015 to 2019, a role in which he continued to champion the cause of national development.
Also, his tenure as Minister of Transportation and, later, as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was marked by transformative policies that modernized Nigeria’s transport and aviation sectors, fostering economic growth and enhancing national connectivity.
According to Maj-Gen Oyinlola, late Lt-Gen Useni’s exceptional leadership in urban development improved public infrastructure, city planning, and service delivery in the FCT.
The Funeral Service concluded with reading of the funeral oration, sounding of their last post, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of reveille, signifying deep respect for the late General and his contributions to the nation. The vibrant display of military precision and honor was a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service.
The funeral of Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni not only commemorated a distinguished military career but also emphasized the profound impact he had on the lives of many within Plateau State and beyond. As the community mourns his loss, the legacy of his commitment to progress and reconciliation will undoubtedly inspire future generations.