President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who passed away at the age of 79.
Ambassador Ogwu, an accomplished diplomat, academic, and public servant, served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations between 2008 and 2017, during which she twice presided over the UN Security Council. She had earlier made history as one of Nigeria’s most respected female foreign ministers and served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she contributed to shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy discourse.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Tinubu described Ambassador Ogwu as a trailblazer who elevated Nigeria’s international standing through her intellect, diplomacy, and leadership. He praised her lifelong dedication to promoting global peace, multilateral cooperation, and the empowerment of women in leadership and diplomacy.
“Ambassador Joy Ogwu was an extraordinary Nigerian who projected the nation’s voice with distinction and contributed immensely to global peace and security,” the President said. “Her work at the United Nations and her tenure as Foreign Affairs Minister reflected her deep commitment to Nigeria’s development and to international harmony.”
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ogwu family, the diplomatic community, and the staff of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. He also paid tribute to her enduring legacy as a scholar and advocate for women’s participation in governance and international relations.
Ambassador Ogwu’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned diplomacy, academia, and public service, leaving behind a record of excellence and integrity that continues to inspire generations of Nigerian diplomats and policymakers.
