Service of Songs Held for Late Economist and Nation Builder Dr. Emeka Flemin Okengwu Ahead of Burial

A solemn Service of Songs has been held in Abuja in honour of renowned development economist, policy analyst, entrepreneur, and humanitarian, Dr. Emeka Flemin Okengwu, as family, friends, government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and associates gathered to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy ahead of his final burial rites.

The event, organised by the Okengwu family in collaboration with the National Coordinating Committee, drew dignitaries from across Nigeria who paid glowing tributes to the late economist for his immense contributions to economic development, public policy, agriculture, industrial transformation, governance reforms, and humanitarian service.

The gathering also provided an opportunity to comfort his wife, Mrs. Jimurua Ijeoma Okengwu, their children, and the entire family. Speaking during the programme, Chairman of the National Coordinating Committee, Prof. Nick Ezeh, described the Service of Songs as a celebration of a life defined by excellence, integrity, compassion, and selfless service. He said while the nation mourns Dr. Okengwu’s passing, Nigerians should also celebrate his enduring impact on national development and the countless lives he transformed through mentorship and leadership.

Born on January 1, 1964, in Nsukka, Enugu State, and a native of Umuoriehi, Isingwu Town in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Dr. Okengwu built an outstanding career as a respected development economist, policy strategist, entrepreneur, and public affairs commentator.

As Chief Executive Officer of Anthill Concepts Limited and pioneer Trustee/Chief Executive Officer of the Confluence of Savannah Peoples Foundation, he championed initiatives focused on poverty reduction, renewable energy, agriculture, industrialisation, environmental sustainability, and economic reforms. He was also a familiar face on major television stations, including NTA, Channels Television, and Arise News, where he offered expert analysis on economic and public policy issues.

Tributes at the Service of Songs highlighted his dedication to nation-building, institutional reforms, philanthropy, and mentorship. Speaking on behalf of the National Coordinating Committee, Dr. Bitrus Pogu commended members of the planning committees, volunteers, media organisations, and supporters for their commitment to ensuring a successful funeral programme, while also praising Prof. Nick Ezeh for his leadership throughout the planning process. In an emotional vote of thanks, the deceased’s son, Mr. Ugonna Okengwu, expressed gratitude to everyone who stood by the family and appealed for continued guidance and support, pledging that the values of honesty, humility, compassion, diligence, and selfless service instilled by his father would continue to guide the family.

The Service of Songs was attended by several notable personalities, including former Permanent Secretary Dr. Philip Ebrogeh Ndiomu, former Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, Managing Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Dr. Emeka Agbasi, Hon. Obi Aguocha, and Dr. Okey Akobundu, among others.

The family announced that the final funeral rites and interment of Dr. Emeka Flemin Okengwu will take place on Friday, August 14, 2026, at his hometown of Umuoriehi, Isingwu Town, Abia State, where relatives, friends, colleagues, and admirers will gather to bid farewell to a man widely remembered for his visionary leadership, intellectual excellence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development.