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Ochei Celebrates Professor Kamene Okonjo as an Enduring Role Model for Women

Published

5 hours ago

October 29, 2026

Cyrillic Ogar

Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and NDC Candidate for Delta North Senatorial District, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor O. Ochei, Esq., FNSE, has paid tribute to the late Professor Kamene Okonjo, describing her as a distinguished scholar, women’s rights advocate and exemplary matriarch whose life and values continue to inspire generations.

In a condolence message following her passing at the age of 96, Ochei extended his sympathies to the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the entire Okonjo family.

He described Professor Kamene Okonjo, who was married for 66 years to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, as a woman whose intellectual excellence, humility and commitment to the advancement of women distinguished her both in academia and in community life.

Ochei particularly highlighted her influence on the upbringing of her daughter, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whose international career and leadership have earned her global recognition.

“The achievements of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala remind us of the enduring influence of a mother’s guidance and the values instilled at home. The discipline, courage, integrity and commitment to excellence that shape an individual’s life often begin with the lessons learnt from parents,” Ochei said.

He noted that Professor Kamene Okonjo’s legacy extended beyond her academic accomplishments to the values she nurtured in her family, adding that her example offered important lessons for young girls and women aspiring to excel in education, leadership, public service and other fields.

“Professor Kamene Okonjo is herself a role model for young girls and women. Her life demonstrates the importance of education, purposeful living, service to humanity and the courage to make a difference. These are virtues that generations of women can emulate,” he added.

Ochei prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed professor eternal rest and comfort the Okonjo family, the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and all who mourn her passing. He said her contributions to scholarship and women’s advancement, alongside the values she instilled in her family, would remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.

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Sapphire Nigeria Promotes Girl-Child Empowerment, Rewards Outstanding Students in Lagos

Published

11 hours ago

October 29, 2026

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

The Sapphire Nigeria Women Football Supporters Club has reaffirmed its commitment to girls’ education, empowerment and leadership development by celebrating the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child at Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, Lagos.

The event brought together students from various schools, distinguished personalities and stakeholders to inspire young girls to pursue their aspirations, build self-confidence and prepare for leadership roles in society.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, formally declared the programme open and rewarded winners of a question-and-answer session with cash prizes.

Barrister Ibidoyin Aina and Wale Akingboju, Chief Executive Officer of Enevic Drinks, also presented cash gifts to outstanding students in recognition of their performances.

In her address, Magistrate Olatunde Adefope urged the girls to take their education seriously, maintain discipline and believe in their abilities, stressing that determination, self-confidence and hard work were essential to achieving their goals.

She encouraged the students to remain focused on their ambitions and take advantage of opportunities that would enable them to develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to society.

The organisers emphasised the need to create an enabling environment where every girl could access quality education, develop her potential and aspire to leadership positions.

“Every girl deserves access to quality education, equal opportunities and the support necessary to realise her full potential. We must continue to inspire our girls to believe in themselves, develop their talents and become confident leaders who will contribute meaningfully to society,” the organisers said.

The celebration also featured the presentation of awards and certificates to deserving students and participating schools in recognition of their performances, participation and contributions to the event.

Among the dignitaries associated with the programme were Hon. Gbolahan Lawanson, who was the Father of the Day; Barrister Hon. Baraka Bakare; and Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda. They were represented at the event due to unforeseen circumstances. Barrister Busayo Odeku was among the dignitaries present.

Speaking on behalf of the Sapphire Nigeria Women Football Supporters Club, Jadesola Adelabu expressed appreciation to the participating schools, students, sponsors, invited guests and organisers for their contributions to the success of the celebration.Adelabu reiterated the club’s commitment to initiatives that advance the welfare, education, empowerment and overall development of the girl child.

She noted that investing in girls’ education and personal development was essential to building a more inclusive, equitable and prosperous society.

The celebration ended with a renewed call for sustained support for the girl child, as the organisers urged parents, schools, government and other stakeholders to work together to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, lead and succeed.

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