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The Digest:

Nigeria has lost a diplomatic pioneer with the passing of Professor Joy Ogwu, the nation's first female Permanent Representative to the United Nations and former Foreign Affairs Minister, who died in New York at age 79 after a distinguished career shaping Nigeria's global engagement.

Key Points:
  • Professor Joy Ogwu died Monday in a New York hospital, with her daughter present
  • She made history as Nigeria's first female UN Permanent Representative (2008-2017)
  • Ogwu served as Foreign Affairs Minister under President Obasanjo (2006-2007)
  • She was the first female Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs
  • The Delta-born diplomat earned her PhD in Political Science from the University of Lagos
  • She presided over the UN Security Council twice in 2010 and 2011
  • Ogwu also served as President of the Executive Board of UN Women
  • Her career spanned academia, policy research, and international diplomacy
In the quiet passing of a diplomatic giant, we remember that true influence is measured not by noise but by the doors opened for others and the principles upheld on the world stage—revealing how one life of purpose can redefine what's possible for generations to come. Rooted in the Storm.

Sources: Family Announcement, Linda Ikeji Blog
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