WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION DIRECTOR-GENERAL DR. NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA PAYS TRIBUTE FOLLOWING PASSING OF HER MOTHER, PROF. KAMENE OKONJO

Renowned sociology scholar, women's rights advocate, and Ogwashi-Uku royal matriarch dies at 96; President Bola Tinubu and Abia Governor Alex Otti join global condolences

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has paid an emotional tribute to her mother, Professor Kamene Okonjo, following her passing at the age of 96.

The announcement was confirmed in a statement issued by the Umu Obi Obahai royal family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, which noted that the late academic and royal matriarch died peacefully on Friday. Prof. Kamene Okonjo was an accomplished professor of sociology, a dedicated advocate for female empowerment, and the wife of the late Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Prof. Chukwuka Okonjo, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.

Expressing her gratitude for the outpouring of global sympathy, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala conveyed her family's appreciation via a statement, reflecting on her mother's long and impactful life. She stated that the family remains profoundly grateful to have shared so many years with her, praying for the peaceful repose of her soul.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the globe. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his deep condolences to the Okonjo family, hailing the late matriarch as an intellectual pillar and champion of societal progress who combined professional distinction with devotion to family and community values. Similarly, Abia State Governor Alex Otti described her passing as a monumental loss, praising her enduring legacy as a teacher, confidant, and moral compass whose values continue to shine through her children.

Prof. Kamene Okonjo is survived by her children, including the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr. Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo, and Chichi Okonjo, as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the wider royal family.