Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Mother, Kamene Okonjo, Dies at 96

Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has died at the age of 96.

The professor of sociology and advocate for women’s rights reportedly died on Friday, according to reports citing a statement from the Umu Obi Obahai royal family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the loss in a post on her official X account on Sunday, thanking friends and followers for the condolences and support extended to her family.

“Today, I have been overwhelmed with messages of condolences and tributes to my wonderful mother,” she wrote.

She expressed gratitude for the support received by the family and reflected on her mother’s long life.

“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,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

Kamene Okonjo was the wife of the late Chukwuka Okonjo, a professor of economics who served as the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku. She was also the mother of Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, the current traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku.

Her other children include Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo.

Her death marks the loss of a respected academic and women’s rights advocate whose family includes prominent figures in Nigeria’s public and traditional leadership.