The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has announced the death of her mother, Professor Kamene Okonjo, at the age of 96.
The announcement was made on Sunday, October 25, 2026, by the Palace Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
According to the statement, the late professor was the matriarch of the royal family and the mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
Professor Kamene Okonjo was the wife of the late Obi Chukwuka Okonjo, the community’s immediate past traditional ruler. The couple were married for 66 years.
The royal family described her as an extraordinary woman whose life was marked by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and service to humanity.
“An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Prof Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment,” the statement read.
Reacting to her mother’s death, Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude to 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. I just want to thank all my friends and followers and let you know how appreciative my entire family and I are of your support,” she wrote.
The WTO chief added that her mother lived a fulfilling life until the end, expressing gratitude for the many years they had together.
“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,” she stated.
