Regina Okeke: Tears, Grief as Influential Civil War Nurse Dies
Regina Okeke, a distinguished veteran nurse in Nigeria, passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by her family. Her funeral is scheduled for January 28 in her hometown, Umuogbulafor-Uzoakwa, Anambra State. Born in 1937, Okeke received her early education in Port Harcourt before studying nursing and midwifery at hospitals in the UK during the 1960s. Notably, she returned to Nigeria amid the Civil War, serving as a Nursing Sister, providing essential medical care during a time of crisis marked by supply shortages and a lack of manpower.
Post-war, Okeke transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, achieving significant success at Brian Munro Limited, where she rose to the position of area manager before her eventual retirement. Her life was characterized by faith, service, and discipline, as noted by her family member, Chuka Okeke.
In an unfortunate turn of events for Nigerian journalism, her death followed closely on the heels of Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, a pioneering journalist and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, who passed away on January 14. The announcement came from Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who paid tribute to Mohammed’s invaluable contributions to journalism and public service.
Governor Ododo characterized Mohammed as a trailblazer in modern investigative journalism, underscoring how he had been instrumental in shaping the professionalism and integrity of the media landscape in Nigeria. Mohammed hailed from Dekina Local Government Area in Kogi and was part of a generation of journalists who significantly impacted public discourse and accountability in the country’s democratic framework. He co-founded Newswatch Magazine in the 1980s alongside peers such as Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, which set new standards for investigative reporting and editorial integrity in Nigeria.
Additionally, Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s contributions to higher education, especially during his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Mohammed’s legacy is noted not only for his journalistic achievements but also for his impactful role in governance and education in Kogi State.
The passing of these key figures, Regina Okeke and Yakubu Mohammed, marks a significant loss for both the healthcare and journalism sectors in Nigeria. Their legacies continue to resonate within their respective fields, showcasing the impactful roles they played in shaping post-independence Nigeria through their dedicated service and commitment. Okeke’s and Mohammed’s contributions reflect a broader narrative of resilience, professionalism, and dedication that has defined the lives of many who strive to uplift their communities and professions in Nigeria.
