Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has thanked Nigerians for their kind words after the death of her mother, Prof. Kamene Okonjo, at the age of 96.
Okonjo-Iweala is the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and a former Nigerian Minister of Finance.
She made the remarks in a post on her official X account on Sunday.
“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.
She said her mother lived a full life to the end.
“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,” she added.
Prof. Okonjo died on Friday, according to the family.
The royal family of Ogwashi-Uku, in Delta State, announced her death on Sunday, October 25.
Royal Family Announces Her Death
The Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, issued the statement on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
The family said she was the matriarch of the royal house.
She was also the mother of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
In addition, she was the wife of the late Obi (Prof.) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku.
The couple were married for 66 years.
The statement described her as an extraordinary woman.
It said her life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and a commitment to 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 she had 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,” it said.
The royal family also described her as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
“Her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character will remain an enduring inspiration to generations yet unborn,” it said.
Family Celebrates A Life Well Lived
The family said it was celebrating her life despite mourning her death.
"While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement said.
It said she left an enduring legacy of scholarship, service, family values and advocacy for the dignity 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,” it added.
The family extended its condolences to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the late scholar’s children.
They are Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo.
It also sent condolences to their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo royal family.
The family also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating her life and legacy.
It said her contributions to humanity would not be forgotten.
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Chai!! Nne take heart, may the good Lord keep you and encourage you during these times.
No doubt to how extraordinary she was seeing as raised another extraordinary woman, may her soul rest in peace.