BY Issah Olegor
The widow of the late Samuel Aboagye, Acting Deputy Director-General of Operations at the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), has delivered an emotional tribute recounting her husband’s final words just hours before he perished in the August 6, 2025 military helicopter crash.
At the state funeral held in Accra on Friday, August 15, 2025, Abigail Salami described her husband as a man of exceptional strength, wisdom, and devotion—both to his family and his nation.
She said his leadership at NADMO and his commitment to disaster response had earned him the respect of colleagues and communities nationwide.
A Career Dedicated to Service
Samuel Aboagye was appointed NADMO Acting Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations, overseeing emergency preparedness and response strategies.
Colleagues recall his hands-on approach during crises, from coordinating flood relief efforts to leading rescue operations during building collapses.
His untimely death, alongside several other senior officers and crew, has left a leadership gap at the organisation.
A Love Story Cut Short
Speaking through tears, Abigail Salami reflected on their life together, recalling his ability to bring joy, peace, and unity to their home despite the pressures of his work.
“From the moment you entered my life, you gave me unwavering love, joy, protection, and the beautiful honour of becoming your wife,” she told mourners, adding that their two daughters remain a living testament to their shared love.
Her most heart-wrenching moment came as she recounted her last conversation with him.
Hours before the ill-fated helicopter departed the Air Force Base in Accra, Aboagye called her and said: “Take care, babe. I love you.” For her, these words are not merely a goodbye but an everlasting promise.
National Tragedy And Ongoing Investigations
The August 6 crash, involving a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, claimed the lives of eight officers and officials.
The aircraft had been on an operational mission when it reportedly encountered difficulties before going down.
The government has invited U.S. aviation experts and the helicopter manufacturer to assist in analysing the black box and determining the cause.
The loss has been described as one of the gravest aviation tragedies in Ghana’s recent history, with the deceased hailed as patriots who died in the line of duty.
President John Mahama and senior government officials have pledged to honour their service and provide full support to the bereaved families.
‘You Will Always Be My Forever’
In her closing words, Salami vowed to keep her husband’s memory alive.
“This world may have lost you, but I will carry your love with me always. You were my partner, my safe place, my joy, and my best friend… Rest peacefully, Eniola Aboagye, until we meet again,” she said, clutching a framed photograph of him.
