President Bola Tinubu has expressed heartfelt condolences over the passing of Professor Kamene Okonjo, the mother of World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who died peacefully at 96 years old.
The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, Tinubu described the late professor as “a distinguished scholar, a champion of women’s empowerment, and a revered matriarch.”
The President also commiserated with the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, Okonjo-Iweala, other family members and the people of Ogwashi-Uku over the loss.
He described her passing as “the loss of an accomplished academic whose life was defined by intellectual distinction, service to humanity, and an enduring commitment to advancing women and society.”
Tinubu also acknowledged her contributions to scholarship and “her inspiring example as a woman who combined professional excellence with dedication to family, community, and the preservation of traditional institutions.”
The President prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort her family and all those mourning her passing.
What You Should Know
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Professor Kamene Okonjo, recognizing her remarkable life as an academic, a champion for women’s empowerment, and a revered community matriarch from Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State.
- Respect for Leadership: This high-profile condolence highlights the strong diplomatic and personal respect between the presidency and global Nigerian leaders like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
- Community Impact: The passing of the 96-year-old matriarch marks the end of an era for the Okonjo royal family and the academic community she served.
