Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Tinubu mourns Joy Ogwu, lauds her for amplifying Nigeria’s voice globally

Joy Ogwu

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s diplomat Joy Ogwu, at aged 79, describing her as a trailblazer who elevated Nigeria’s presence on the world stage.

He noted that Ogwu held key diplomatic roles, including serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and as Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York from May 2008 to May 2017. She also led the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) as Director-General, greatly shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy and international affairs scholarship.

Known for her dedication and diplomatic skill, Ogwu twice presided over the UN Security Council—in July 2010 and October 2011— championing global peace, disarmament, international security, and women’s rights.

President Tinubu, According to a statement by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, praised her for projecting Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose, honouring her legacy as a person who rose through excellence and hard work.

The President extended condolences to her family—including five children, grandchildren, and siblings—as well as the diplomatic and academic communities, praying for peace for all mourning her loss.