By Nafisat Makinde
It is with great sadness that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs announces the passing of Chief Ebun Oyagbola, Nigeria’s first female minister, who died on February 28, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, at the age of 93.
Chief Oyagbola was a true pioneer, shattering barriers as Minister of National Planning from 1979 to 1983 and later as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico. Her dedication to national growth, diplomacy, and women’s empowerment has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has expressed deep sorrow over her death, celebrating her trailblazing achievements and legacy.
In a statement at the weekend by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Jonathan Eze, the minister stated that Chief Oyagbola’s unwavering dedication to national growth, diplomacy, and women’s empowerment was a beacon of hope and progress that continues to illuminate the path for Nigerian women and girls.
“Her legacy aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes women’s empowerment, gender equality, and inclusive development as fundamental pillars of national transformation,” said Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
“Chief Oyagbola’s life’s work serves as a clarion call for the continued advancement of women and girls, a cause that remains at the heart of the Honourable Minister’s mandate.”
“On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the entire women constituency of Nigeria, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, the government and people of Ogun State, and all those whose lives were touched by her remarkable journey.”
“As we mourn this monumental loss, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to preserving her legacy by advancing policies and programs that promote women’s empowerment, leadership, and inclusion – ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind.”
“May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to celebrate Chief Oyagbola’s life and legacy, and work tirelessly to advance the causes she championed throughout her remarkable career.
Our dear Mama Chief Ebun Oyagbola. Your Excellency ma , it’s sad to hear of your loss but I call it a celebration of life . No doubt your love for the country, for the Women and the Girl child will never be forgotten. You were a shining star and will continue to shine. May the Almighty God continue to use your Good Deeds to Bless you. Rest in Peace ma. Aaamiin !
Princess Yakubu.
Amin. Thank you ma
May her soul rest in peace
Chief Ebun Oyagbola’s remarkable life was a masterful weave of diplomacy and leadership. Been the Nigeria’s first female minister, she started a legacy and paved the way for generations of women to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy is a testament to the transformative power of courage, and determination. May her memory continue to inspire and empower.
Amin ! Babay Zee
She is a trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire future generations, paving the way for women’s participation in Nigerian politics and diplomacy.
And so it will be good for her histery to be part of our history .
The future generations definitely needs to be more educated on this beautiful history to help women finds their potential in a society where women are hardly listen to. Rip heroes
Nagode sir
We thank God for the life of Chief Ebun Oyagbola. May her soul rest in peace.
Nicely written piece ma
We NewsAblaze appreciate your feedback. Thank you Barrister Danilola
We thank God for the life of Chief Ebun Oyagbola. May her soul rest in peace.
Nicely written piece ma
You set a standard and legacy that will always thrive women to be better.
Rip Chief Ebun Oyagbola.
May Mama’s gentle soul rest in peace and may her immediate family be consulted. It baffles me some times when we only hear of great people after their death. Mama aught to be celebrated more while she was alive, reading about all her great contributions. She was no doubt a great woman. We pray that her soul rest in peace
how
Amin! Thank you for commenting on my page. Nagode
She was indeed a trailblazer,may her soul rest in peace.
Indeed! She was. Thank you ma
You set a standard that everyone woman can thrive.
You will forever be remembered
Rip Chief Ebun Oyagbola.
Thank you for visiting this page.
We are saddened by her demise because she played very prominent role in our history as a nation. RIP Mama.