President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, who died at the age of 79.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the President described Ambassador Ogwu as a trailblazer, diplomat, and scholar who dedicated her life to promoting Nigeria’s image on the global stage and advancing the cause of peace, security, and women’s empowerment.
President Tinubu praised the late envoy’s distinguished service to the nation, noting her tenure as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she contributed immensely to shaping the country’s foreign policy and grooming a generation of foreign relations experts.
“Ambassador Joy Ogwu projected Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose and worked tirelessly for global peace, disarmament, international security, and the advancement of women’s rights,” the President said. “Nigeria has lost a trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work.”
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Ambassador Ogwu’s diplomatic career was marked by groundbreaking achievements. As Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations between 2008 and 2017, she represented the nation with distinction and served twice as President of the UN Security Council first in July 2010 and again in October 2011 a rare feat for any diplomat.
Throughout her career, Ogwu was recognized for her intellect, professionalism, and passion for international cooperation. She championed disarmament initiatives and worked closely with global leaders on policies promoting peace and human development.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to Ambassador Ogwu’s family, including her five children, grandchildren, siblings, and the entire diplomatic and academic community, describing her passing as a “painful loss to the nation.”
He prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and comfort for all those who mourn her.
Ambassador Joy Ogwu remains one of Nigeria’s most respected voices in diplomacy a symbol of integrity, brilliance, and dedication to service whose legacy continues to inspire women and young professionals across Africa.