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The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has paid tribute to her mother, Prof. Kamene Okonjo, who died on Friday at the age of 96.
The former Nigerian Minister of Finance described her late mother as a woman who lived a fulfilling life until the end.
In a post on her official X account on Sunday, Okonjo-Iweala thanked friends and followers for their condolence messages and support for her family following the loss.
“Today, I have been overwhelmed with messages of condolences and tributes to my wonderful mother. I just want to thank all my friends and followers and let you know how appreciative my entire family and I are of your support,” she wrote.
“My mother lived a quality life till the end and we are very grateful we had her for so long. May her soul rest in perfect peace.”
The 96-year-old was the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family and the mother of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II.
She was also the wife of the late Obi (Prof.) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State. The couple were married 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 scholar as an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.
“An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Prof. Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment,” the statement read.
It added that despite her exceptional intellect, she possessed gentleness, humility and grace that endeared her to those who knew her.
“Her achievements transcended the boundaries of Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her admiration and respect within academic and intellectual circles internationally,” the statement said.
The royal family also described her as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the family.
“Her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character will remain an enduring inspiration to generations yet unborn,” it added.
The family said it was celebrating a life well lived despite mourning her death.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement said.
It noted that the late academic left behind an enduring legacy of scholarship, service, family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.
“We take comfort in our Christian faith and the assurance that she is resting peacefully with the Lord, having completed her earthly journey with grace and distinction,” the statement added.
The Umu Obi Obahai family extended its condolences to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo, as well as their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo royal family.
The family also urged the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating the life and legacy of the late scholar and matriarch, whose contributions to humanity, it said, would not be forgotten.
