President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and one of the nation’s most distinguished diplomats, Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who died at the age of 79.

Ambassador Ogwu, who served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York from May 2008 to May 2017, was widely respected for her integrity, intellect, and dedication to international diplomacy. She also served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she played a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy and advancing the nation’s presence on the global stage.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late diplomat, describing her as a trailblazer who represented Nigeria with exceptional skill and distinction. He noted her remarkable service at the United Nations, where she presided over the UN Security Council twice, in July 2010 and October 2011, and championed causes related to peace, disarmament, and the empowerment of women.

The President extended his heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Ogwu’s family, friends, and the entire diplomatic and academic community. He said Nigeria has lost a woman of excellence who rose to the pinnacle of her profession through hard work and dedication, praying for the peaceful repose of her soul and for divine comfort for all who mourn her passing.