President Tinubu Honors Late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu with Heartfelt Tribute

Iwuanyanwu's Impact Lives On 

“The late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo served the nation in many official capacities...”

President Tinubu Pays Tribute to Late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu - celebrating a life of philanthropy and service to Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a renowned businessman, elder statesman, and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. This gesture comes as the nation prepares to bid farewell to the renowned businessman and politician, who passed away in July.

Chief Iwuanyanwu, who founded Champion Newspapers and Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland FC) in Owerri, passed away on July 25, 2024, at the age of 81.

Tribute Highlights

President Tinubu acknowledges Iwuanyanwu's remarkable contributions to the country

The late leader's courage and resolve have left a lasting impact on Nigeria.

Funeral Rites

The funeral rites for Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu are scheduled to commence on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, with his burial to follow. This will be a poignant moment for the nation to come together and celebrate the life and legacy of an extraordinary individual.

A service of songs was recently held to honor his memory, and his funeral rites are scheduled to commence on October 29, 2024, with his burial set for November 1, 2024. President Tinubu extended his condolences to Chief Iwuanyanwu's family, the Imo State Government, and his friends and associates, acknowledging his significant contributions as a businessman and politician.

Highlights of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu's Life:

Business Achievements: Founder of Champion Newspapers and Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland FC)

Leadership Roles: 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

Legacy: A respected elder statesman and businessman

Funeral Rites: Scheduled for October 29, 2024, with burial on November 1, 2024.

“The late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was a colossus of many parts. In sports, he was a pioneer; in business, he was ingenious and resourceful; in politics, he was astute; and in philanthropy, he was relentless,” Tinubu wrote in a tribute piece on Friday.

“The late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo served the nation in many official capacities. He was the founding chairman of the Raw Materials and Research Development Council (RMRDC) and the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) chairman.

“He also served as chairman of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) board, founding chairman of the Nigerian National Lottery, and chairman of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi.

“I mourn the passing of this illustrious son of Nigeria.”

The President described the late Igbo and national leader as “courageous” and “a gladiator.”

“Chief Iwuanyanwu was courageous, defiant of injustice, and uncompromising. He had the heart of a gladiator, resolute and indomitable,” he added.

“I recall his sports exploits with the Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club, now Heartland F.C., which he founded in 1985. Thanks to his acclaimed facility for excellence, the club won several national and international championships. He was a significant factor in Nigeria's sports development.

“Chief Iwuanyanwu was enterprising. He believed in Nigeria's human and material abundance and fecundity, and his investments across sectors and the nation attest to this.”

President Bola Tinubu has commended the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu for his remarkable philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, healthcare, and other vital sectors of society. This recognition highlights Chief Iwuanyanwu's enduring legacy as a renowned businessman, politician, and humanitarian.

As a respected leader, Chief Iwuanyanwu made significant contributions to Nigeria's development, demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of its citizens. His philanthropic endeavors have had a lasting impact on various aspects of Nigerian society, including:

Education: Chief Iwuanyanwu's support for educational institutions and initiatives has empowered future generations.

Healthcare: His contributions to medical facilities and healthcare programs have improved the quality of life for many Nigerians.

Economic Development: As a successful entrepreneur, Chief Iwuanyanwu created job opportunities and stimulated economic growth through his business ventures.

President Tinubu's tribute acknowledges Chief Iwuanyanwu's invaluable contributions to Nigeria's progress, celebrating his life and legacy as a champion of social welfare and national development.

“I commiserate with the Iwuanyanwu family, the government, the people of Imo State, and Ndigbo Gburugburu as the burial rites of Chief Iwuanyanwu begin in a few days.

“His life and remarkable accomplishments will always be remembered, and may God Almighty grant his soul eternal rest.”