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...Commiserates with family, Govt, people of Edo State
From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Federal Government, has expressed sadness over the passing of the Director in-charge of the West African Affairs Division (WAAD) in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Stephen Ojo Ogidan.
The Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, in a statement issued in Abuja, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced with profound sadness and a deep sense of national loss, the demise of Ogidan who passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025 in Abuja after a brief illness.
Ebienfa also said until his unfortunate and painful passing, Ogidan was the Director in-charge of the West African Affairs Division (WAAD) in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He added that as a distinguished and consummate officer, Ogidan dedicated over three decades of his life to exemplary service to the country.
“He joined the Nigerian Foreign Service in January 2007 following the merging of the defunct Ministry of Cooperation and Integration in Africa with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Throughout his illustrious career, he was renowned for his deep intellect, strategic acumen, and an unwavering commitment to the promotion of Nigeria’s national interests and the advancement of regional integration. As the Director of the West African Affairs Division, a role he held with exceptional diligence, Ambassador Ogidan was a pivotal figure in shaping and managing Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements in West Africa. He played a critical role in fostering diplomatic dialogue, managing complex regional issues, and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and cooperation across the sub-region. His expertise and calm demeanour were invaluable assets to the Ministry and the nation at large.
“Prior to this role, Ambassador Ogidan served in various capacities within the Nigerian Foreign Service, including postings to the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Buea, Cameroon and Embassy of Nigeria in Lome, Togo, where he consistently distinguished himself as a dedicated and effective representative of our country. He was conferred with the title of Ambassador-insitu by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the year 2021.
“Ambassador Ogidan was a gentleman officer and a true patriot whose wisdom, dedication and patriotism were an inspiration to all who had the privilege to work with him. His passing therefore leaves a void that will be deeply felt, not only within the walls of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but across the diplomatic community,” Ebienfa said.
Ebienfa also said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, loved ones, and the Government and people of Edo State in this moment of grief and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
