FORMER PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN EXTOLS THE VIRTUES OF LATE PROF. JOY OGAZI UGWU
Abuja, Nigeria – 20 November 2025
Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has paid glowing tribute to the late Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Joy Ogazi Ugwu, describing her as a solution provider, an exemplary diplomat, and a woman whose life embodied service, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national progress.
The tribute was delivered on his behalf by Prof. John Kennedy Opara at a Night of Solemn Tribute organised by friends, colleagues, and close associates of the late diplomat. The event, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, brought together distinguished personalities from government, academia, and the diplomatic community, all united in honouring a stateswoman whose career left a deep imprint on Nigeria’s international standing.
According to Dr. Jonathan, Prof. Ugwu represented the best traditions of Nigeria’s foreign service. “Ambassador Joy meant a lot; she was a bridge builder,” Prof. Opara conveyed. “Her invaluable contributions to nation-building will remain indelible in the sands of time. She served her country with commitment, clarity of purpose, and a remarkable ability to bring people together.”
Born on 22 August 1946 in Asaba, Delta State, the late Prof. Ugwu carved a distinguished path as one of Nigeria’s most respected diplomatic figures. As Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, she achieved the rare privilege of chairing the UN Security Council twice, demonstrating intellectual rigour, poise, and exceptional leadership on the global stage. Her tenure elevated Nigeria’s voice in international diplomacy and strengthened the country’s reputation as a reliable and principled actor in global affairs.
Beyond her diplomatic achievements, Prof. Ugwu served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she championed research, policy development, and the training of future diplomats. She later became Minister of Foreign Affairs, a role in which she further distinguished herself through her commitment to constructive engagement, regional cooperation, and the promotion of peace and development across Africa.
Dr. Jonathan extended his deepest condolences to the family of the late professor, noting that her life and legacy will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians, especially women aspiring to leadership in public service. He emphasised that Nigeria has lost a rare gem: a scholar-diplomat whose work advanced the nation’s interests with dignity and wisdom.
The former President encouraged the family and all who knew her to take solace in the knowledge that Prof. Ugwu lived a purposeful life and left behind a legacy of service, courage, and exemplary professionalism.
