Giles Omezi

Giles, I am completely shocked by the news of your passing; you were like a fun and profound, if often too serious older brother; this is a great loss for the African community, and the British African community in particular - we always wish we could have more time with those we love, yet I am grateful for your generosity with your time, advice - and willingness to make mischief. Rest well, and peace to your memory and family - my thoughts and condolences with them at this time. With love, Dele

This came as a shock. Rest in peace Giles. You will be missed.

I first met Giles sometime after 2003, at a pivotal point in my life. I had recently just got my Part 3, yet was feeling underwhelmed and disillusioned about what it meant to be a black or even more specifically, Nigerian architect living and working in London. The UK at the time was going through its era of ‘starachitects’ and iconic buildings that spoke little to my interests or my context.

It’s impossible to explain how significant meeting Giles and a group of slightly older black and Nigerian architects did to reorient my worldview at the time. Reconnecting me back to my culture, my history and ultimately the city of Lagos, as well as many other cities. This led to the creation of ‘bukka’ and many many gloriously, energetic, vivid and deeply purposeful forays exploring architecture, culture and possibility.

I’d often meet Giles for lunch, at the cafe at Allies, or spending hours using the Royal Festival’s free internet, always stimulated by his brilliant mind and wonderful smile. He also had these long fingers that found a purpose, as he sketched diagrams and ideas.

The ‘bukka’ event at the October gallery remains one of the proudest personal moments in my career. It felt like a moment of alchemy and I remember being so filled with joy afterwards, surrounded by like minds, friends, family, egbons, a roster of the most talented individuals of our generation, a moment filled with unabashed hope.

Over many years, from London to Lagos, spending time with Giles always felt like discovering an opportunity to learn something and in some instances that discovery was a nice glass of whiskey.

I spent a lovely day with Giles last August, we had lunch in the new Kings Cross, a space many years before he had worked on and walking through it felt like a wonderful full circle moment. He still had that great smile and that ‘hmmm’ look when I mentioned something not of architectural merit. I always imagined he’d be one of those men that grew old in his library, and we’d get to go and visit from time to time and come away feeling like something constant remains. He always felt like something constant, a baobab tree, wise and enduring.

He will be greatly missed. I will miss him. But I remain thankful for his life and feel truly blessed to have known him.My deepest condolences to your family, your children and everyone that loved you. Giles, rest in peace brother. Your memory endures.

My Friend and Brother, Giles

I have always looked up to Giles. He was one of the first people I could talk to like a brother, even though we weren’t family. I had the opportunity to share a house with him at 10 Ronald Road when I first came to London to study. At the time, I was the only guy living with three women and the youngest in the house. But when Giles moved in with his girlfriend, it brought a balance, and we formed a strong bond.

I was young and new to the city, and he guided me through those early days of being a “JJC” (Johnny Just Come). He introduced me to many influential people and was always ready to go the extra mile to find solutions for those around him. Thanks to him, I got my first car, which saved me a lot of hassle getting to work.

Giles, I will always have you in my mind and close to my heart. Your memory will live on forever.

Giles was an outstanding student during our time at Federal Government College Ilorin. Still can’t believe he is gone so soon.

May God grant his family, friends, and loved ones the strength to endure this profound loss.

He will be greatly missed.

May he rest in perfect peace. IJN, amen.

Giles
Too soon, too young, but I guess God needed you home.

Rest in well my friend, till we meet again.

Much Love
Ai

Giles,

I can’t believe I’m writing this. This really cuts deep.

I remember us first meeting as architects working on the London Olympics in ‘06. It was my first job after graduating, being thrown in the deep end with a sea of busy people and remember us recognising each other with “the nod”.

We hit it off straight away and it was easy to see you were not only the most hard working guy I ever met but had such a great sense of humor and whit with temperament and compassion to match.

Our shared Jamaican/Nigerian roots gave us fantastic long chats for many years about how we would change the world on both sides of the pond - a bond that I will sorely miss.

Later on, when you left London for Nigeria you carried a torch with you, shining a light on what was possible out there, creating a legacy and influence far beyond what even you imagined. A testimony to your hard work and dedication to improving the lives of others.

Your work has proved you are were light years ahead of most and I feel a real happiness at what you achieved – despite monumental challenges.

I’ll sorely miss our quiet catch-ups in London with you and the family.

Our hearts are heavy from your loss but I say thank you my good friend and rest well.

Giles =
Unique
Quirky
Determined
*Resilient
Funny
Present
Focused
Proud of his heritage
Rooted in his heritage
Loving
Embracing
Refreshing
*Stubborn
Perfectionist
Visionary
Fearless...Naija no easy but he dey der!!
Persistent
Highly Intelligent
*A brand representative of Idumuje

Permit me Oby, I just had to plagiarise it…You described Giles so well, very apt! I only had to highlight the three qualities that stood out for me.

We met in Unilag and remained close ever since.

Giles was a very cerebral and engaging individual with so much passion for Architecture (to the extent that he used to design table and chairs).

He was also very stubborn, and he stuck to his views or position when he had made up his mind about something… I later realised that it was because you always held on to your values – consistently in accordance with your personal beliefs and principles.

You always valued friendships which you effortlessly nurtured and valued. You shared stories about Van, Buife, Pope, Tochukwu…Many of them I never met.

Eshoe and Biola (GILES IS GONE)!

Gileees, heaven has gained an angel, I’m so glad you found your *way* back home.

You shared your diagnosis with me, and we spoke a couple of times. I was amazed with the way you held on to your Faith and you took it on like the resilient soldier you have always been!

As a father, you were devoted to your children, Tobi, Masi (my birthday mate), and Laniya. Natasha and the entire family my heart goes out to you all.

Sleep well my dear friend, a true soldier, till we meet again *to part no more*

From Vans to Sedoo to me—you had a way of bringing people together. Nearly 20 years ago, we met, drawn by our shared passion for architecture and furniture design. We lived together, worked together, agreed and disagreed in good faith, always with mutual respect.

Nine years ago, we tried to build something new, but life took us in different directions. No one I know breathed architecture the way you did. Your passing is a deep loss, my broda—not just for those who knew you personally, but for the profession that defined you.

The last time we met was at Sedoo’s wedding in Abuja in 2018. Even then, your quiet wisdom and foresight were evident, always seeing further than most. You sneakily told my soon-to-be wife, “Don’t worry, you’ve got him,” long before I even knew I’d got her.

Three years ago, you introduced me to your cousin Sam, our Development Manager—another sign of your unwavering vision, always thinking ahead, always working toward something bigger.

Your passing came as a shock, my broda. Everything we did not speak about was outside architecture. Our back-and-forth, a coded WhatsApp status: Deus mecum est, to which I replied, Deus magnus est, and you affirmed “All the time! Indeed, my brother”. Even “Dominus fortitudo mea”—that time, I jokingly replied, “some kind of palm scratching”? and you didn’t follow up. Now it makes sense.

You never told me what you were going through. You never spoke of burdens, only of possibilities—like Uncle Demas. I know the path: how we cut grass, and it’s overgrown before we can do a full 360. This scars me. No breathing space. You’ve run your race. Maybe you didn’t get the gold you deserved, but to those who knew you, only peace can come close to your reward for your hard work.

But as leaves wilt, so ends the bold curtain that brings the young out of shelter… so I pray that your unfinished work is preserved. Through it, one of your boys will carry the baton and, somewhere between the son of Louis Kahn and M.I. Brunel, will find their father’s legacy.

It would be fitting that your dedication to a life of work carries on in this generational struggle—the evolution of an African and even Caribbean diasporan’s story.

So lie quiet. Sleep, my broda, sleep—for your world immaterial, we will forever seek.

Peace In Heaven

You're peacefully now sleeping

In a world of purest light,

Where angels sing their

sweet refrain And

where everything shines bright.

Beside the tranquil waters

You walk along each day,

Where the blossoms

are so beautiful

With the colours they display.

You're so very dearly thought of

And every precious

memory,

Has left a lovely rainbow

That will last eternally.

My Boss, my mentor, my friend. You called me on the 25th of December and was praying for me and wishing me well. You asked that i forgive you if there is anything you've done knowingly or unknowingly to offend me, at that point tears were rolling down my eyes as i continue to answer AMEN to your prayers, from the tone of your voice i knew you were in pains yet you managed to call me in what looked like a farewell call💔
After that call with you i immediately called Martins to ask if you called him and he confirmed that you did and we prayed for you. I never knew that will be the last time i will hear your voice again.

I'm deeply saddened by the loss of a great man. My heart goes out to the Omezi's during this difficult time.

Mr Giles was an exceptional leader, mentor, and inspiration to me and many others. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked under their guidance and learned from your wisdom.

Your legacy will live on through the countless lives you've touched, and I'll always cherish the memories and lessons from our time together.

Please accept my sincerest condolences.

I bid goodbye to one so loved and never to be forgotten.

Rest in peace Boss

All those memories etched in my elephant memory, the tears keep coming and yet it’s been ages since we sat face to face. I read somewhere that Grief is the purest form of Love. Well it is certainly a season of grief. We shared love, laughter, tears -everything; through intense ups & downs.- the lot of us. I am so damn grateful for the season of youth we spent together.
In the last 12 months I said Adieu to Andrew, Abuchi, Nwebo and now you.

In 1 John 4:10, it says

“Love consists in this :
It is not we who loved God
but God LOVED US ……”

We all come from this pure love & we will return there.. May your Soul rest in this everlasting peace. 🙏🏽.

Tasha, it breaks my heart to see you have to bear this incredible loss. May your heart find solace in your faith in Christ Jesus.🙏🏽♥️

Soul family we are, and soul family we remain . Till we meet again Nwannam bless

Ifeoma

Giles was more than just a neighbour; he was a kind and caring member of our community at No.2. His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in our hearts.
Go well Giles, may your soul find rest!

A builder, a believer and a brother.
Giles, I am deeply saddened that your earthly race is done. I pray that you achieve rest and peace and that your legacy shines always. Thank you for your humanity, realness and effervescence. I will miss you.

I am very sorry to have lost a young brother who was a brick in my family wall.
There is now a gaping hole which causes deep sorrow. We may not have been in close communication, but news of him would float my way and I would relish in his professional success.

In my consciousness, he was always there, ever since he was a student at Federal Government College, Ilorin, who once in a while spent his Saturdays off with me & my kids.

Farewell young brother, May your gentle soul rest in peace. You were deeply loved and are sorely missed. God is in charge.

Aunty Ify Iweriebor
[Nwa Fanny]
New York

“GO”
It is with deep sadness that I write this tribute to my former boss, professionally and fondly called "GO", who left us early this year after a courageous battle with cancer. His demise marks the end of an eon, and I am honoured to have had the privilege of working under his guidance.

GO was extremely passionate about everything architecture. He was a leader who embodied the values of excellence, discipline and dedication. He was a perfectionist who demanded the best from himself and those around him. His unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service / results was catching, inspiring us to strive for the best in everything we did / do.

Throughout his battle with cancer, GO demonstrated a courage and resilience that was truly remarkable. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained steadfast in his commitment to work and his team, never wavering in his dedication to excellence. His bravery in the face of adversity was a testament to his strength of character and a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

GO's commitment to work was matched only by his commitment to his faith. In the last year of his life, I watched him draw closer to our Papa, the Almighty God and I am glad that he was able to find peace and comfort in his final days. May God grant him eternal rest.

GO, your legacy will live on through the countless lives you touched, and I am grateful to have been part of your team. Adieu boss, rest in peace!

A Tribute to Giles Omezi

It is with a heavy heart and deep reflection that I pay tribute to my dear friend, Giles Omezi. The pain of his passing is profound, yet his memory remains a bright and unwavering light in my heart.

Giles and I grew up together in the same neighborhood, bound not just by proximity but by a deep and enduring friendship. Though he was younger than I, our connection was effortless, as if we were age mates. He possessed a rare brilliance—an intellect that shone in every conversation, every idea, and every dream he shared. An architect of both structures and thoughts, Giles was a man of vision, boundless energy, and remarkable creativity.

I vividly recall his last visit to my home in Nigeria. His mind was alive with elaborate ideas, his enthusiasm infectious, his passion undeniable. He spoke of possibilities, of futures he envisioned, of ways to shape the world with his gifts. That was who Giles was—a man who saw beyond the present, who dreamed fearlessly, and who inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though his time with us was far too brief, Giles left an indelible mark on those who knew and loved him. His laughter, his intellect, his warmth, and his dreams will forever remain with us. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life, his achievements, and the legacy he leaves behind.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. Rest well, my dear friend. You are deeply missed but never forgotten.
Nnamdi Onyekwe esq.

Giloooo!! Wow! It seems like just the other day we were bantering at your 50th virtual meet. A gentleman and all round great guy. Certainly gone too soon, rest easy bro.
Gbulash

I met Giles through my younger Sister about 30 years ago. We kept in touch and the last time we spoke he was asking for my advice on the School he wanted his Children to attend in Lagos.
This last conversation made me see him as a caring and Loving Father.

As an Architect we interacted professionally and he was passionate about his creative gift.

We pray for his Family and he will be greatly missed.

Rest in Peace dear Giles 🥲 gone too soon! You had so much left undone 🥲 My deepest condolences to loved ones.

When I think about it, I haven’t called Giles, “Giles” for many years. I honestly can’t recall after all this time how we got there, but he’s been Gi-lez for as long as I can remember; so much so that it almost sounds strange when I hear people say Giles. I have fond memories of our political debates (or more specifically, Naija political debates) with Gi-lez. Needless to say, Gi-Lez knew a lot about a lot of things, and I always left our debates enlightened and with some new fuel for debates with someone else. We talked about our love/hate relationship with Naija. On the one hand incredibly frustrating, but like many others, we’ve caught this Naija bug, and just can’t help but love and hope for the best for our beloved Naija. I pray that all the things we hoped, prayed and dreamed about for Naija will one day come to pass, and maybe we can pick up where we left off when we meet again on the other side.
Sleep well my dear aburo, Gi-lez.
Pastor A

I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend, Giles. We go way back to our days in the UK, partying together - London nights, making great memories. Life took us on different paths, and we lost touch for over a decade, but fate had other plans. When I moved back to Lagos, I was surprised and grateful to find out we were neighbors, and just like that, we picked up our friendship where we left off.

Gile’s was always kind, gentle, and full of warmth. His presence in the compound brought light to those around him, and it’s hard to believe he’s no longer with us. He was a truly lovely guy, and I already feel his absence.He will be missed.

Lay well, my friend. May the Almighty comfort your family giving them strength in this difficult time. Ameen

A very heavy loss to all his friends and family. Giles was a true spirit, so friendly and positive. He will be sorely missed by so many people. Very said that he should leave us so young and with so much yet to achieve and do in his life.

Giles to me was a fearless architect and friend. Ever seeking a new adventure with determination and positivity. A fierce believer in the change possible in Nigeria and the future of architecture in Africa. Infectious as ever. The world of architecture will miss him

My Great Uncle Giles,

I am consoled by the fact I always gave you your flowers while you were here on earth, during our always lengthy conversations whenever I come visiting the house or your office.

I remember the very day in 2014 you walked into my branch while I was with UBA Plc in Ikeja-GRA, you had an issue with your account and the operations team were hesitant to resolve because you had a black and white picture on your account from your UNILAG days and hadn't transacted on the account in years.
I got a call to come downstairs and speak to an "irate" customer, lo and behold it was you, but I didn't know we were related (I had met Uncle Ubani two years prior to meeting you for the first time ever in a restaurant because he interloped in a discussion I was having with my colleague), for some reason I signed off your transaction after I had done due diligence because you had to catch a flight back to the UK.

Weeks later I discovered via Facebook through Uncle Ubani that we were related and when you stepped into my office a few months later I hugged you and introduced myself and from that moment we became 'Daniel & Mr. Miagi' (Karate Kid; 1984).

Thank you for being such a beautiful soul and your sagely advice whenever I needed to speak to you.

God bless Tobi, Mas and Lani.

I will miss you beyond words can express Uncle Giles 🌹🌹🌹

We mourn the loss of a good man! Very compassionate and loving!
You left shortly after your step mom! You were such a blessing . Heaven’s gain.

Rest peacefully dearest Giles.
Theodora Azinge

My sincere condolences

Giles,

Like a flash and you were gone. Were you doing us totori ? You relocated to Naija and despite the daunting odds stacked up, you built the world class Government Technical College, Benin-city, Edo State, Nigeria, restoring craftmanship at its finest in our teenagers, bringing dignity to our forgotten trade School teachers and setting a national standard of pride to the long suffering and forgotten vocational education Schools. Irony is the Federal Government has now mandated the restoration of these vocational Schools in the national curriculum. GTC Benin, your project, is the standard by which they’ll all be measured. Bro, you never compromised on standards, your work endures and outlives you. Generations will refer to how you transformed the Nigerian landscape in education and beyond. Even when the bad-belle people refused to pay you for work done, somehow you forged ahead believing in a greater future for your beloved Naija. I hail your doggedness and bravery. May your children know about how great a pioneer you were and how till the end you wished the best for all. Rest in peace my paddy. We’ll carry on your good works and pass it on to the next generation until the dream becomes real.

Sir Gbolahan Olayomi
Co-traveller

My condolences to the family. May God grant you the strength to carry on. Rest in perfect peace Giles, you will be missed.

Rest in perfect peace, dear Giles.

My condolences to the family

This is really sad

My condolences to the whole family

Regards

Your beaming smile will live on in our memories forever….RIP dear brother 🙏❤️

We met Giles through Chuka Mordi & it was always ‘Giles’ this & ‘Giles’ that. We must admit that we were expecting a quintessential Englishman with a name like Giles & to our surprise it was a guy with a surname Omezi..lol
Our friendship with Giles was easy, as it is with people you meet & just click with. With Chuka as our neighbour, our ground floor flat was the ‘passing through’ venue for Giles when he was staying with Chuka. He later became our upstairs neighbour at Cooper Rd & again he would often stop by going in & out. Like all easy friendships, we would often go long periods without speaking or seeing him, but would simply pick up where we left off when next we met. Through his battle with cancer, we spoke to him a couple of times, offering prayers & encouragement, but were often humbled & inspired by his unshakeable faith in Jesus.
He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace Giles

Giles introduced me to the world of urban development in Nigeria. His work, knowledge and wisdom helped me with my research, but also created a foundation for where I am today. He was a good person that made time to nurture young minds. I am grateful for what he gave and may his soul rest in peace.

Giles, thank you and rest on.

Rest in Peace, Giles.

Thank you for the friendship. Thank you for your selflessness, the unpaid consultancy for my project, your interest in our work in Ekiti, making the time to introduce me to interesting people.

May God accept you into his kingdom and comfort your family. Your memory will always be a blessing.


Journey well, brother. Peace and love.

Giles and I met sometime in 2018. We were both passionate about making a difference with Technical and Vocational Education for youth development. I don’t have the words to express how I feel. Rest with the Lord dear friend

Giles, I’m so sorry you’re gone; and also maybe I’m angry at you for checking out too soon. So many many memories. Meeting you for the first time in a cafe that Esohe pulled me along to, around the corner from the Nigeria high commission. Calling in on you in your office suite across from UCL. Hanging out with Kaye Whiteman in Bukka times. Hearing about a Nigeria I just missed, your train trips back from school and boat trip back from the UK. Hearing your encylopaedic downloads of what was in the heads of the superpermsecs who built Lagos. Doing your confirmation interview for your phd.Taking a road trip to Lokoja with Tobi. All the connections you helped me to make with goodwill and enthusiasm. Most of all the endless hours of conversations comparing notes about how to navigate policy and polity and get things done in these crazy times and places we deliberately look for. You had so many tribulations that you did not deserve and you weathered them with resilience and a sense of humour you never lost, even when we were in Lagos in October, when you were clearly in pain but we spent an evening at your place Not Talking About It and having a good time just being. My fellow traveller and friend. Will miss you, your avid curiosity, empathy, singularity, your integrity for good and strength in impossible stubbornness. You are leaving a huge space. Miss you man. Rest well.

It is still very shocking to know you have gone. Giles was such a dynamic architect with dep interest in people and places.He was always all about improvement and making things sustainable. I remember you well in studio and seriousness and wanting to meet deadlines and going round to check what others are doing.May the God Almighty bless your path home in the beyond.You indeed lived ,loved and lit the world in your own way.


Soji Ilumoka-Archi 86 mate

My brother Giles, it’s such a difficult feeling realizing you have left this realm and we won’t be able to meet up for those rich and real brotherly discussions about life , architecture and faith in God. This faith that had been seeking us all finally fully embraced you as you opened up your heart and intellect and placed your trust and hope in the one who knows all things. While this was not the plan we had we give God all the glory for his plan.

My memory of our brotherhood from our youthful days in Unilag as classmates and roommates remain fondly in my heart. As we grew as men, got married, became fathers and husbands and progressed in career our paths always kept us in each other’s lives. However, it was in the last two years that this bond grew much stronger as a third strand in our cord brought us closer together in hope and faith. God speed Giles as your rejoice with the saints triumphant.

Adieu “Professor” Giles, it was an honour to have been a part of your journey, and you will be fondly remembered. I will most miss our discussions on Nigeria’s unfulfilled intellectual potential and your boundless enthusiasm. Rest in peace dude…

Leslie Ohomele

I first met Giles at a best friend's house in London in the summer of 2001. I had just returned to the UK after 7 years in Lagos. We were both architects so we hit it off immediately, gisting far too much about architecture while everyone else was inside the party.
Armed with an Obama smile, Giles made the art of conversation a thing of beauty. He was so gracious in manner; a gentleman through and through. I felt there was something he saw in me, and likewise.
It was no surprise, in 2008, with his big heart for Nigeria, he invited me to join his firm, Laterite, in the UK, and later STRATA DB in Nigeria, as a co-director.
No friend had ever done that for me, but Giles did. He would say: 'I'll fly you in to Nigeria, we have to see the Governor.' 'We need to visit some contacts in Amsterdam!' Can you visit the British Museum for a meeting without me?'
I came to find that his 'big game' intelligence and networking skills were second to none. He seemed to know every topic of discussion and knew exactly who to speak to.
The highlight was when we interviewed some of the top architects in the world for the Abuja Technolgy Village concept masterplan. At the time, the international competition included Rem Koolhaas, Lord Richard Rogers, Steven Ehrlich, Buro Happold, and so on. How he got all these names into one room remains a mystery to me. Remarkably, he could pull anything off! That was Giles Omezi! My Bro!
Our friendship enabled us spend long hours talking, dining, driving, working, dreaming, praying. The list goes on.
When I visited him last December at Gozika's, he remained brave and confident. I prayed my hardest. He hugged his hardest. Not sure I'll meet this kind of a person again. One of a kind.
My real joy is that you were a Believer.
Enjoy Heaven!
We will gist again.

Giles =
Unique
Quirky
Absent-minded
Determined
Resilient
Funny
Present
Focused
Proud of his heritage
Rooted in his heritage
Loving
Embracing
Refreshing
Stubborn
Perfectionist
Visionary
Fearless...Naija no easy but he dey der!!
Persistent
Highly Intelligent
A brand representative of Idumuje
With each of his footsteps he left an indelible mark
It is impossible to meet Giles and not note him, or want to know him more
He had faith and this sustained and soothed him when he needed it most.
Sister Natasha, our dear sons Ifeanyi and Mas and daughter Lady Laniya, May that faith and the positive memories of him provide you continuous joy, light, hope and strength, as he would have wanted. But also know there are many who are there to support and help. Beloved cousin Giles, there was a reason we randomnly saw at Abuja airport in October 2023. We laughed, gisted and complained about the spiciness of food and how it was affecting our stomach. You said you were returning for a medical diagnosis...but not in our wildest thoughts did we think the worse. But it prompted me to also have my medical check, and for that I give you thanks. Stay blessed and rest in peace lots of Love, Oby (daughter of Aunty Jo's Omezi) and family xxx

Words fail me to talk about this wonderful man and friend , I am grateful to have known you and Tash and be a part of your journey. But the corruptible must put on incorruptible,even death will be swallowed up in victory. You made it with the Lord - so we continue to run the race set before us until we meet again at His feet - Selah Dr Jo Red Deer Canada

Gilesooooooooo, my friend, my brother, Vanny's besto!!!! I have been dragging this out for a few days, but here goes....I knew you for just coming up to 30 years, from Cheptsow road, to Baker Street, to Fleet Street, West Ken, Lekki to Ikoyi.......hmmmm I am awash with grief!! I am thankful for the Gift of you Giles, the consummate gentle man, my gist partner and two way therapist, we discussed ALL.. the one who taught me mental broken up!!! All the laughs and tears, triumphs and failures, we did them all. You are loved my brother, then, now and forever... always in our hearts, We will never forget you, So sad Isla did not get to know you better :-) you would have enjoyed who she is becoming. You mean so much to a lot of us more than you knew, I have dug through all the phones, can't find any of our pictures, :-). I know that you are in a better place.
Tasha..... I am so so sorry.
Adieu Gilesooooo, till we see again, say hi to Rhire for me, he pops in my mind from time to time. I will "mentally" :-) miss you.

In Loving Memory Of Our Dear Friend And Brother, Giles Omezi.

I met Giles Omezi in 1981 as Form 1 students at Federal Government College (FGC) Ilorin. We were in the same boarding house, School House and as fate would have it, we were in the same room (“Room 4 Upstairs” as we called it back then) for the 5 years of our stay there.

Giles was one of the lucky few who always knew what he wanted to be, an Architect. From as early as I remember Technical Drawing (TD) was in my view his favourite subject. Giles had a somewhat blasé attitude to school routines such as; afternoon and evening prep, siesta time, house chores etc. As expected he got into a fair amount of trouble over these with the attendant punishment that comes with disregarding school rules. These never served as deterrence to Giles. He had an unbreakable spirit and back then he was care free and I sometimes wished I could worry less about things like him. Giles always saw the funny side of life and I honestly can’t recall witnessing him getting angry. Back then, even as teenagers, Giles had an entrepreneurial streak and easily earned himself the title, “Ogidi Merchant”.

After leaving secondary school, Giles and I went off to different universities and we lost touch till I ran into him in November 2015 in the lounge at Muritala Mohammed International Airport Lagos. The chance meeting reunited our friendship and we kept in touch since then. The last time Giles and I met was in January 2023. He called to let me know he was in Lagos for a few days and he wanted us to catch up. I never miss an opportunity to have a good laugh and this was always guaranteed anytime we meet over drinks and a meal. So, on January 12, 2023 we met at Z Kitchen in Victoria Island at about 5PM we had some good food and drinks and great conversation and hearty laughs ………. I didn’t see this coming ……. that this would be the last time I’d see you physically and have a good laugh.

Rest in peace my dear friend, Giles Omezi, like I said, I didn’t see this coming as I didn’t know you were battling colon cancer and neither did our other classmates of 86’ Set. So as expected the news of your passing on came as a rude shock to us.

On behalf of the entire class of FGCI 1986 Set, we wish you a peaceful journey and may God grant you eternal rest. We pray to God to comfort the loved ones you left behind.

Lenin Oaiya
For and on behalf of FGC Ilorin 1986 Set

Giles. It still seems so surreal that he's gone. I think of Natasha I think of Giles. Bayswater, Christmas dinner (courtesy of Aunty Bev :-) ), Russell Square, Christmas in Milton Keynes, his wedding... The memories flooding back... It's still hard to process, that he's gone. But the memories live on, memories of an immensely gifted, sensitive, thoughtful, intelligent, responsible, focused, cultured, articulate, reflective, insightful witty brother, father, cousin, friend. But most importantly, a man of God & that's our hope, our comfort, that he's at peace now, no longer in pain, but asleep until Christ's return. Rest easy Giles.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 - 13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.

In Loving Memory of Giles Omezi

Giles, writing this feels almost unbearable.

Your name, always intertwined with Tasha’s, echoes endlessly in my mind. inseparable—two names forever etched in my heart. I can’t help but think of my dear sister, Victoria, your stepmother, who passed just months ago. She adored you and Tasha, the children she never had. I’m thankful she was spared the heartbreak of losing you.

I cannot recall a conversation with My big sister Victoria where your name wasn’t lovingly mentioned. You were her pride, her joy. Tears well up as I remember our last long phone call in October. Though we didn’t speak often, whenever we did, the hours slipped away in conversation.

Giles, you carried yourself with such grace, elegance, and charm. Your towering presence and sophistication lit up every room. As an architect, your brilliance shone brightly, leaving an undeniable mark on your field. As family, you were kind, compassionate, and deeply loved. As a father, you were extraordinary, devoted to your children, especially Tobi, who was your eldest and needed more guidance.

You were far too young to leave us, and the pain of your loss is immeasurable. But our faith gives us comfort that we will meet again to part no more .

Kachifue! dearest Giles. You will always be in our hearts.

With love,
Valerie Azinge

So it is true I find it difficult to believe that you are gone,I'm still waiting for someone to tell me that it's a prank, my 8 years of working with you I never regret it you have been a good and wonderful boss to me,you help me you encourage me you take me as your blood, you did not see me as a commoner, you take me as your family, I will forever miss you,my Uncle Giles Omezi

YOUR HOUSE KEEPER
RACHAEL A'ARON

Giles Omezi

I must write with such a mix of feelings.
Yet my heart knows well that the Lord God has treated us with great kindness in this.

Therefore I thank the Lord Jesus Christ…
For your life, and your new life in God; your Father
For your joy being a father of three children
For your professional fulfilment and successes
For the protection of your sensitive nature by a deeply caring big sister; Natasha
For cousins and family who were there till the end
For the hope we have in continuing life and laughter …in another time and another place

Thanks be to our Heavenly Father, because he’s got you, he’s got Tash, he’s got all your family, he’s got us all; who cling to his love.

It is well.

Still finding difficult to believe that my amiable, humble, caring, & loving boss. Mr. Giles Omezi D. O. Is gone. I will miss him a lot. Rest on!

I met Jiles and Natasha when I visited my twin sister ( their stepmother).
Jiles, a tall soft spoken young man was very loving and a darling to be with.
He was also very smart and very caring.
He went on to become a very successful entrepreneur.
With his success, he took care of everyone around him.
He took care of my twin sister when she fell ill, paying the caregiver and medical bills with the sister Natasha.
He continued taking care of my twin sister even on his sick bed.
We will always remember him for his loving kindness and his amiability.
May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord Almighty.
Victor Azinge

Many years ago, Giles accompanied me on a pastoral visit to hospital. I could tell that he felt so much compassion for this patient we were visiting and whom he hardly knew. Later on, we decided to buy them some food from a nearby outlet, and then we prayed. This was such a profound and cherished experience that showed me Giles' magnanimous heart. Recently, when I visited him, he regaled me with stories about his experiences in Nigeria, and through it all, he was still providing for a number of people. He didn't have to, but his beautiful heart could not handle seeing a needy person go without. Truly, Giles had a pastoral heart, which just came naturally. Those who know him will understand what I'm talking about. He spoke about forgiveness and practised it as a Christian virtue, which we should all emulate. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Adieu Giles. We shall meet again in glory with great joy.
Pastor Joe

Gilles My dearest brother, wetin I wan talk, what can I say again. Yet another Iroko tree has fallen after my twin, your cousin Chu-chu left. Whenever we were together I sensed he was quietly chilling with us as I once told you.
I simply thank God, for everything thing and I mean everything. Since the 90’s you and I have been inseparable. From when I owned a PUB, to my restaurant in Brixton, Hendon , old Kent Road , We followed each other to naija, as you ran things in Edo state , I set up places in VI at landmark beach very close to your architectural firm. I would come to your office and you would breeze by to the beach to hangout with me at Cogito. It was your house or mine, your business or at mine. Then ultimately when I told you I was going to build a hotel in Ghana, you took it upon yourself to come with me to site and ultimately designed the hotel. I am grateful to God I have immortalised you through that design . As I write, I am in the Executive Suite in the hotel which will now be renamed GILLES SUITE.
The place stands out magnificently and it’s even more special to me right now. I remember our last meeting and conversation at Gozika’s house where you personally opened the doors to let me in. You told me “It’s now in God’s hands “ and when I went out with Goz to get your food at the supermarket, we both instinctively knew you were saying your good byes. When I got back we gisted as only us can and made jokes about all the beers we drank together. We agreed that put together, we could fill a small lake with beers between us . We laughed, we lived , we studied, we reminisced and we rolled through life in moderation but determination and great success . I am grateful for the opportunity and may the angels guide you straight to heaven where our other brother Chuchu and your parents await you with open arms in the presence of our Lord.
Kodi ezigbo nwanne k’odiwa. Goodnight till it’s my call. Keep an eye down on me my brothers. It’s not the same place without you two . Never will be.

I will not question God but this one pain me reach bone .
Thanks for the time and love .

Popee

Dearest 'lil cuz - Giles. "Big sis" you used to call me, and I'll smile...

Smart, insightful, intelligent, ambitious, deeply private, peace loving, always respectful and caring family man. These positive adjectives are not enough to describe you. For the past year, your pain was apparent and the news of the diagnosis was a shock, unreal, surreal, simply unbelievable. But it was true and you held strong, positive and prayerful inspite all the challenges.When told you were responding to treatment I believed God will deliver on our family's prayers. But He knew best and didn't want to prolong what you were going through. No words can express the deep sense of loss our family feel. Most importantly, no one can imagine the numbing pain your 'twin' sister 'Tasha and your son, Tobi is going through. You were always together, united as one. So now, you are with your parents - at peace. To quote 'Tasha's words "they are all having a party without me", I can believe it. Knowing your father, my beloved sociable and dynamic uncle David, (one of my mum's favourite cuz), with your step mum Vicki, uncle introduced me to cornflakes with tinned pears and condensed milk for breakfast, as well as taking me to a couple of Nigerian parties in Liverpool with them, my 'lil brother, you will party. You will also be rejoined with your dignified and deeply private mum, my Aunty Bev, whom I squatted with for weeks (months?) in Luton and taught me how to make fast food from frozen packages after work. Your parents divided their genes equitably. You - uncle David, as handsome but taller. 'Tasha - Aunty Bev. Her carbon copy. So we will not say 'goodbye' but 'au revoir' - we shall all see again. Until then, just like your parents, you will always remain in our hearts and be sorely missed. Rest well dear one.

Dear Giles,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this tribute following your birth to eternal life on 17th January 2025. My heart is aching with the loss of a remarkable and resilient friend and brother.

My heart had been heavy with the news of your illness since January last year. I am going to miss all our conversations and the chats. You were so full of life that not a soul who heard us talking on the phone would have the inkling that you were not feeling well. My great friend Emeka Chime always asked after you and prayed for you from the moment I told him about your diagnosis. On the day you passed, we were both talking about you and I actually called you twice and left a voice note for you, not knowing you had passed a few hours earlier ☹ You can imagine the shock when I told him about your passing. To think that Emeka never met you and I have not seen you in over 45 years is unbelievable!!! But distance was never an issue as we had several discussions over the last year.

What really amazed me was the enthusiasm and optimism you had on life as that is what kept you going. We had plans but God knows best. I will always remember you and I thank your sister Natasha, who was the path through which I virtually met you, for the extreme love she showered on you. She is simply amazing!!!

Throughout your illness, you showed immense courage and grace. Even in the face of tremendous adversity, your faith remained unshaken, and your spirit unbroken. You faced each day with a strength that inspired me. Your passing leaves a void, but your legacy of resilience with that loud laughter of yours will live on in my heart.

I prayed fervently for your recovery almost every day, and I was very optimistic, but I now find solace in the belief that you have gone to a better place. Though my knowledge is imperfect, I trust in God’s divine plan. My prayer now for your family, especially your lovely Natasha, is that God gives them the grace to accept this loss and find comfort in the memories they all shared with you.

I pray that God’s presence overshadows you where you are now and that all of us that love and care for you get the strength and courage to accept God’s will. As we mourn your birth to eternal life, we will also celebrate the beautiful life you lived. May your family find strength in each other and in the knowledge that you are now at peace, embraced by the eternal love of God with no more pain.

May God bless your entire family. May God’s face shine upon you and give you peace. Giles, you will be missed, but your spirit will always be with me. Till we meet again, I love you bro!!!

Tobi, I am so sorry for you loss and I have no words but to pray for you and your siblings. May the good Lord provide all of you with strength and carry this burden for all of you. May the good Lord bring peace and calm to all of you during this painful time. Amen. Tobi I am here for you. Stay strong brother and stay strong for your siblings.

The 'Great David Omezi'.....although we missed meeting each other by a few years at Akoka, I guess a meet-up was bound to happen sooner or later. From the day our paths crossed at Holbrook House, Plaistow, you became a concrete positive constant both in my professional and personal lives.

Your passing hurts deep and leaves us with many questions. Questions that readily find their answers in the journey you went through, a journey that brought you a depth of maturity and peace many of us on this side sorely lack.

As I commensurate with your family and all who's lives you've been an invaluable part of it is my prayer that the Lord teaches us to number our days that we might apply our hearts unto wisdom.

The truth of the word can sure be tough - "to die is gain".

GDO.... God bless you.

Words fail me….
Giles you are forever in our hearts …
Blessedly in the embrace of Christ 🙏🏽

I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend. Having known him for over two decades, his presence in my life was a gift I will always cherish. In Igbo spirituality, we understand that the journey does not end here; the soul transitions to join the ancestors under the watchful eyes of Chukwu, where it continues to guide and protect us. May his spirit find peace among them, and may his memory remain a blessing to all who knew him. Journey well, my friend. Udo!