By Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who died at the age of 79.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, President Tinubu described Ambassador Ogwu as a trailblazing diplomat and scholar who dedicated her life to advancing Nigeria’s interests and global peace.
Ambassador Ogwu, who served as Nigeria’s envoy to the United Nations between May 2008 and May 2017, also held the position of Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she contributed immensely to shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy and international relations.
During her tenure at the UN, she twice presided over the UN Security Council, in July 2010 and October 2011, earning respect for her leadership and advocacy on issues of disarmament, women’s rights, and international security.
President Tinubu extolled the late diplomat for “projecting Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose,” adding that her passing marks the loss of “a trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and the diplomatic community, praying for the repose of her soul and divine comfort for all who mourn her.