Labour Party (LP) National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, has paid tribute to Prof. Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Prof. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, describing her death as a significant loss to Nigeria. Usman conveyed her condolences in a letter issued on Thursday in Abuja, highlighting Okonjo's contributions to academia and community development. Kamene Okonjo died on Friday, October 23, at the age of 96.
Kamene Okonjo was a distinguished academic and traditional ruler whose contributions to education and community development earned her widespread recognition. She was a woman who lived a fulfilled life and left behind an enduring legacy. According to Usman, Okonjo's death remains a painful loss, particularly given her contributions to Nigeria's academic community and her service to the people of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State.
The LP chairman acknowledged that Okonjo distinguished herself through her academic achievements and commitment to the welfare of her people. Usman particularly highlighted her role as a queen in Ogwashi-Uku, noting that her warmth, wisdom, and dedication to community development earned her a respected place in the kingdom. Okonjo became a full professor at the University of Ibadan in 1973, establishing herself as a prominent figure in Nigeria's academic landscape.
Usman reflected on the personal impact of Okonjo's passing, recalling the motherly affection she extended to people who had the privilege of meeting her. "For those of us who had the privilege of meeting her and experiencing her motherly love, her departure leaves an enduring void in our hearts," Usman said. She extended her heartfelt condolences to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and other members of the bereaved family.
Okonjo was married to the late Prof. Chukwuka Okonjo, a distinguished Nigerian mathematician, economist, academic, and traditional ruler. Their family includes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who has held several prominent positions in public service, including Nigeria's minister of finance and minister of foreign affairs, before becoming Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.
The death of Kamene Okonjo marks the passing of a woman whose professional and traditional responsibilities placed her at the intersection of academia and community leadership. Her contributions to education and traditional leadership reflect the role of academics in shaping institutions and supporting community development beyond the classroom. Her passing has drawn tributes recognising her professional accomplishments, commitment to her people, and the personal relationships she built throughout her lifetime.
Usman prayed that God would grant Okonjo's family and all those she left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. "May her gentle soul find eternal rest in the bosom of our Lord," she added. The LP chieftain also acknowledged that Nigeria would miss Okonjo's invaluable contributions to academia and her exemplary service to society.
Key points
- Labour Party National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, pays tribute to Prof. Kamene Okonjo.
- Kamene Okonjo died on Friday, October 23, at the age of 96.
- Okonjo was a distinguished academic and traditional ruler whose contributions to education and community development earned her widespread recognition.
