The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has announced the death of her mother, Professor Kamene Okonjo, who died on Friday at the age of 96.
The former Nigerian Minister of Finance expressed appreciation to friends and well-wishers for their messages of condolence and support to the family following the loss.
In a message posted on her official X account on Sunday, Okonjo-Iweala described her late mother as a woman who lived a fulfilling life until the end.
She said the family was grateful for the many years they shared with the deceased and thanked everyone who had reached out to them during the period of mourning.
Professor Kamene Okonjo was a respected sociologist and the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State. She was also the mother of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II.
She was married to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, for 66 years.
Her death was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku, Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, on behalf of the royal family.
The statement described the
late professor as an accomplished academic whose contributions to sociology, women’s rights and human development earned her recognition both in Nigeria and internationally.It also highlighted her humility, compassion, intellectual brilliance and commitment to improving the lives of others.
Beyond her academic achievements, Professor Kamene Okonjo was remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who played a significant role in her family and community.
The royal family said her life was marked by scholarship, service, strong family values and a commitment to the advancement of women.
The statement added that her wisdom, kindness and exemplary character would remain a source of inspiration to future generations.
The family also expressed comfort in its Christian faith, saying the late scholar had completed her earthly journey after a life of distinction and service.
Her children include Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo.
The family extended its condolences to the deceased’s children, their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other members of the Okonjo royal family.
It also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to celebrate the life and enduring contributions of Professor Kamene Okonjo, whose influence extended beyond her immediate family and community.
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