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Ex-Minister Kuforiji-Olubi Dies At 80

December 5, 2016

Mrs. Kuforiji-Olubi will be remembered for her dedication to serving the people of Nigeria and for blazing the trail for Nigerian women to pursue eminent positions in both the public and private sectors.

Former Minister of Commerce Bola Kuforiji-Olubi died on Saturday at the age of 80, according to family sources.

President Muhammadu Buhari, various governors, and other leading figures in the Nigerian government and banking industry sent their condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.

Mrs. Kuforiji-Olubi will be remembered for her dedication to serving the people of Nigeria and for blazing the trail for Nigerian women to pursue eminent positions in both the public and private sectors.

"As a distinguished economist and manager who scored many firsts in breaking the glass ceiling in both private and public services, the President believes that Otunba Kuforiji-Olubi will be remembered for redefining the place of womanhood in Nigeria's development and inspiring others," Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, said in a statement on behalf of Mr. Buhari.

Mrs. Kuforiji-Olubi was the first woman to serve as chairperson of the United Bank of Africa and the first woman president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

"For us in Ogun State, she was an icon," said Governor Ibikunle Amosun. "We will particularly miss her words of wisdon at this critical stage in the development of our dear state."