Prof. Kamene Okonjo Celebrated at 95: A Trailblazer in Academia and Culture
Prof. Kamene Okonjo, a distinguished academic, respected traditional leader, and beloved matriarch, was joyfully celebrated on her 95th birthday over the weekend, as family, friends, and admirers gathered to honor a lifetime of remarkable achievements and enduring impact.
Born in 1930, Prof. Okonjo has long been recognized as one of Nigeria’s pioneering female scholars. With a career spanning decades in academia, she broke barriers in a male-dominated field and inspired countless students with her intellect, integrity, and commitment to education. A former professor of sociology, she is widely respected for her scholarly work and her dedication to advancing women’s roles in society.
The celebration, held in her hometown of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State, brought together dignitaries, community members, and family, including her daughter, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization. It was a day filled with gratitude, reflection, and admiration for a woman whose influence has stretched across disciplines, borders, and generations.
In addition to her academic accomplishments, Prof. Okonjo serves as the Queen Mother of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, a role in which she has worked tirelessly to uphold cultural values, promote peace, and support local development initiatives.
“She is a rare combination of grace, intellect, and strength,” said one guest. “At 95, her mind remains sharp, her presence commanding, and her legacy unquestionable.”
Prof. Okonjo’s life and work have left an indelible mark not only on her family and community but also on Nigeria’s broader educational and cultural landscape.
As tributes continue to pour in, one message rings clear: Prof. Kamene Okonjo is not only being celebrated for reaching 95, but for how she lived each of those years with purpose, passion, and principle.
