Kamene Okonjo, mother of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organisation, has died at the age of 96.
Kamene, a professor of sociology and advocate for women’s rights, died on Friday, according to reports citing a statement issued by the Umu Obi Obahai royal family of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom in Delta State.
In a post on her official X account on Sunday, Okonjo-Iweala thanked friends and followers for their messages of condolence and support. “Today, I have been overwhelmed with messages of condolences and tributes to my wonderful mother,” she wrote.
“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.” Kamene was the wife of the late Chukwuka Okonjo, a professor of economics and former Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
She was also the mother of Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, the current traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, as well as Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo, and Chichi Okonjo.
Kamene Okonjo’s death closes a chapter in one of Nigeria’s most distinguished academic and royal families.
Her legacy as a professor and women’s rights advocate extends beyond her daughter’s global profile.
The Okonjo-Iweala family receives an outpouring of condolences from across Nigeria and beyond.
Her royal connection to Ogwashi-Uku adds cultural significance to the loss.
Her long life of 96 years reflects a generation that shaped Nigerian education and public service.
