President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who died in July at the age of 82 after a brief illness.
In a tribute signed on Friday, the president described Iwuanyanwu as a “colossus of many parts,” praising his vast contributions across multiple fields.
“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was a pioneer in sports, ingenious in business, astute in politics, and relentless in philanthropy,” Tinubu remarked. He highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s extensive service to the nation, noting his roles as founding chairman of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), chairman of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), and leadership positions with the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Nigerian National Lottery, and National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi.
The president celebrated Iwuanyanwu’s legacy in sports, recalling the founding of Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland F.C.) in 1985, which went on to win multiple championships under his stewardship. “He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s sports development,” Tinubu noted.
Reflecting on Iwuanyanwu’s entrepreneurial spirit, Tinubu emphasized his belief in Nigeria’s potential, with investments spanning across sectors and regions, and acknowledged his charitable work, including scholarships, schools, hospitals, and support for numerous causes.
“Though he lived to the age of 81, his stabilizing presence and wise counsel will be greatly missed,” the president said. He extended his condolences to the Iwuanyanwu family, the people of Imo State, and the entire Igbo community, as the burial rites of the late elder statesman begin.
“May God Almighty grant his soul eternal rest, and his life and remarkable accomplishments will forever be remembered,” Tinubu concluded.
