Abuja, NIGERIA – Tributes poured in Friday for former Anambra State Governor Chukwuemeka Ezeife (CON), the State’s first civilian governor from January 1992 to November 1993, shortest-serving governor — and one of the most popular – a hard-nosed elder-statesman. Ezeife died on 14 December 2023. He was 85.
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture released a statement Friday, remembering Ezeife for “his exemplary virtues of leadership, wisdom, compassion, and dedication to the betterment of our society.”
A press statement titled, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture Mourns the Passing of Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON, Chairman of Board of Trustees, signed by the Director General Hon. Chineme Onyeke, reads:
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON, the esteemed Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture. Dr. Ezeife peacefully departed this world around 6 p.m. on December 14th, 2023, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and the society at large.
“Dr. Ezeife was an exceptional leader and a visionary whose dedication to the ideals and mission of the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture was unparalleled. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in steering this organization towards greater heights, making it a beacon of intellectual discourse and recognition of outstanding contributions in various fields.
“In this time of profound loss, we extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Ezeife’s family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched. His legacy will endure as a testament to his remarkable character, unwavering integrity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
“Dr. Ezeife will be remembered for his exemplary virtues of leadership, wisdom, compassion, and dedication to the betterment of our society. His passion for education, social justice, and his visionary leadership will continue to inspire generations to come.
“The void left by Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife’s passing is immeasurable, but his legacy will continue to guide and inspire us in our pursuit of excellence and service to humanity.
“The Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture family mourns this irreplaceable loss and pledges to honor his memory by continuing the noble work he championed.”