Delivered by,
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu,
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi,
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Chief (Hon.) Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka: “Okwuruoha” A Life of Excellence, Integrity, and Service
In the quiet hours before midnight on the 9th of May, 2025, the curtain fell on an extraordinary life. We gather today with heavy hearts but with profound gratitude to celebrate the luminous journey of Chief (Hon.) Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka, a statesman, scholar, mentor, family patriarch, and towering figure in Nigeria’s political and economic evolution.
His was a life dedicated to the service of humanity and the relentless pursuit of excellence, underpinned by integrity, humility, and a fierce commitment to the greater good.
A Scholar of Uncommon Distinction
Dr. Asoluka’s intellectual journey began with brilliance and ended with distinction:
B.Sc. Political Science, University of Ibadan (1979) – emerging as the best graduating student of his department.
LL.B. (Hons), University of London (1990) – mastering the intricacies of law to complement his governance expertise.
M.Sc. International Economic Relations, University of Lagos (1989) – laying the groundwork for his career in policy design.
M.Sc. Finance and Shipping Trade, City University Business School, London (1991) – a rare specialization that fortified his global maritime and trade policy expertise.
Doctorate in Public Policy – earning his place as a foremost scholar and practitioner in governance and public sector reform.
In recognition of his excellence, his alma mater, the University of Ibadan, bestowed on him the prestigious “Most Distinguished Alumnus Award.”
Distinguished Public Service and Political Leadership
Few have traversed the corridors of public service with the depth, vision, and dignity that defined Dr. Asoluka’s remarkable career:
Member, House of Representatives (1992–1993) – Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations, renowned for his policy-driven debates and legislative integrity.
Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Imo State (1994–1996) – presiding over landmark fiscal stabilization strategies that set the gold standard for state economic management.
Chairman, Committee of Finance Commissioners in Nigeria – coordinating fiscal policies for Nigeria’s 36 states at a time of national economic volatility.
Chairman, Federal Budget Review Committee (1995) – playing a historic role in shaping the fiscal direction of Nigeria.
Policy Adviser, House Committee on Transport (2003) – pivotal in drafting and championing the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003.
A Maritime Visionary and Economic Reformer
Dr. Asoluka’s legacy in Nigeria’s maritime and industrial sectors remains unrivaled:
Over 13 years at the Nigerian Ports Authority and News Agency of Nigeria.
Chairman, Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority – transforming it into one of Africa’s largest and most productive free trade zones.
Chairman, Governing Board, Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) – championing bold reforms that attracted foreign investment, stimulated manufacturing, and created thousands of jobs.
Managing Director, FM&T Consulting Group – where his policy insight and consulting acumen influenced both government and private sector entities across Africa.
Scholar, Author, and Thought Leader
A prolific intellectual, Dr. Asoluka wrote extensively on transportation and maritime policy:
Harnessing Change for Growth in the Rail, Road, and Water Sector of the Nigerian Transport System
Cargo Support: Tool for Building Indigenous Competitive Maritime Industry
The Nexus Between Leadership and Prosperity – an impassioned call for ethical leadership and policy integrity in Africa.
Mentor, Community Leader, and Family Patriarch
Dr. Asoluka was more than his titles. He was a father, husband, mentor, and builder of men. From his beloved hometown of Umuezeawula, Ihiagwa, to the corridors of global institutions, he mentored generations of public servants, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
His commitment to family was matched only by his commitment to Nigeria. His beloved daughter, Somachi Chris-Asoluka, the first of his 3 kids, today serves as CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, continuing the family’s legacy of leadership and impact across Africa.
Honours and Enduring Legacy
Dr. Asoluka received numerous national and international awards, recognizing:
His stellar contributions to public service
His visionary leadership in economic reform and industrial policy
His tireless advocacy for integrity and excellence in governance
Despite his accomplishments, Dr. Asoluka remained grounded, deeply involved in community development and cultural preservation in Ihiagwa and beyond.
As we bid farewell, we are reminded by his life’s work that true leadership is not about position or wealth but about service, purpose, and the courage to shape society for the better.
Final Reflections
Dr. Asoluka’s life was a living testament to what becomes possible when brilliance, humility, and moral fortitude align. He leaves behind a Nigeria and an Africa infinitely better for having known his voice and his vision.
Rest in perfect peace, Chief (Hon.) Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka. OkwuruOwerre!!!!
Your name is carved indelibly into the annals of history.
Your legacy is written not just in awards, but in the countless lives you have touched.
You remain forever an inspiration to the generations who will follow.
By your nephew,
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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