MBNCWD mourns music legend Onyeka Onwenu

By Joy Baba-Yesufu

The Director General, Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (MBNCWD) Asaba Vilita Bashir has express shock and sadness over the sudden passing of one of the centre’s former DG, Onyeka Onwenu.
Bashir said as Director-General of the Centre, Onwenu repositioned the Centre as a Training Ground for women, children and the less privileged, while also Spotlighting the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
The DG, in a statement made available to journalist on Wednesday said the legendary singer, songwriter, actress, and cultural ambassador left an indelible mark on the music industry, the arts, and the hearts of fans worldwide.
According to the statement “she brought about developing rehabilitation and reintegration programmes in the mainstream budget of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development in the three most affected States in the North East of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. She also produced and dedicated an epic music titled “Not Alone” to identify with the plights of the IDPs.
“It was during her tenure as DG that the International Day for the Girl-Child (11th October) was first celebrated nationally in Nigeria. Additionally, she endorsed the formal training of female Artisans in the Centre and promoted the production of Ankara made souvenirs in the Centre.
“Throughout her illustrious career, Lady Onyeka Onwenu received numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious Nigerian National Order of Merit. She was also a former Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture .
“We mourn the loss of a trailblazer, and a visionary woman. Lady Onyeka Onwenu’s impact on Nigerian music, culture, and society will never be forgotten. Her legacy will continue to inspire and empower future generations of artists, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts”.