In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.
Obituary
Godfrey Ogbonna Obiaga, 90, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2024. Born on December 20, 1934, Godfrey was a devoted husband, father, and esteemed community leader whose extraordinary life touched many worldwide.
He shared his life with Ifeoma Anadu, his steadfast wife and the love of his life. Together, they raised four children (Uzonna Aruna, Ifedinma Nwigwe, Nkilinwa Obiaga, and Nnanna Obiaga), imparting the values of love, integrity, and mutual respect that became the foundation of their family. Godfrey was known for his commitment to cleanliness and his efforts to teach younger generations the importance of integrity, hard work, and punctuality.
Godfrey’s academic brilliance was evident early in life, earning him a scholarship to study at the University of Manchester, England, from 1964 to 1967. Sponsored by the Eastern Nigeria Government and the British Council, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in July 1967. His pursuit of excellence continued at the Ontario College of Pharmacists in Toronto, Canada, where he earned his Pharmaceutical Chemist Certificate in July 1969.
In his professional life, Godfrey was a pioneer. He owned and managed Vanguard Pharmacy in West Toronto, Ontario, successfully running a community pharmacy focused on Clinical Pharmacy Practice. Upon returning to Nigeria, he served as Chief Pharmacist and Head of the Pharmacy Department at the Institute of Health, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria from 1978 to 1994. His dedication to the field also led him to contribute as a part-time lecturer in Pharmacy Management at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, from 1980 to 1986. Later, he served as Chief Pharmacist at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Anambra, from 1996 to 1999, and as Head of the Pharmacy Department at National Hospital, Abuja, from 1999 to 2000. In all these places, he established and operated the Drug Revolving Fund and the Unit Dose Dispensing System.
He has consulted for organizations like the World Health Organization, and been an honorary member of the WHO Expert Advisory Panel on Drug Evaluation. He also consulted for the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), as well as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria. He was appointed as a key contact for Health Action International, Europe, and was also elected (twice) Vice President for Africa for the Section of Hospital Pharmacists of the Federation of International Pharmacy (FIP).
Godfrey's work experience has made his mark as a prolific writer in his field. In 1979, he established and was the Editor of “Pharmacy Bulletin”, a publication of the Pharmacy Department of the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria, where he published over 80 articles. This bulletin had a wide circulation, and copies were sent to subscribers all over Nigeria. It was also circulated to the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, Italy, to name a few. He has also published a book, “The Essential Drugs Concept and Its Ramifications, published in November 2000.
Godfrey’s passions extended beyond his professional and academic achievements. He was an avid photographer with an artistic eye, capturing the beauty around him. His love for gardening turned his home into a blooming sanctuary, reflecting his patient and nurturing spirit. Fishing brought him relaxation and joy, while his lifelong love for music led him to form the group "Highlife W'Africa," where he performed as a vocalist alongside his brother Tim, who played the drums. Music was one of Godfrey’s greatest joys, and he served as the choirmaster at Saint Andrew's Anglican Church in Zaria for many years, leaving a lasting legacy within the community.
During his time at Government College Umuahia, Godfrey also excelled in athletics, serving as the captain of Athletics and participating in high and long jump events, soccer, hockey, pole vault, hop-step jump and cricket. He won the Victor Ludorum (winner of the games) Trophy while in the college.
Godfrey’s travels to various countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, Switzerland, Austria, South Africa and Israel, broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of the world.
Godfrey Ogbonna Obiaga will be remembered for his significant contributions to pharmacy, his inspirational leadership in church and education, and his unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy of dedication, passion, and grace will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
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(IFEACHUKWU) may your soul rest in peace
Till we meet to part no more
In the name of Jesus
Amen
Goodnight
A good man has gone home.
A silent achiever: a man of peace,
A man with a large heart.
A man who touched the lives of many, both young and old.
A great man who brought peace, equity, and fairness to his families.
Your simplicity, kindness, humility, godliness, and goodness inspired many and gave hope to the hopeless. Death has snatched you away from us. What more can I say than to thank God for your life? You lived a life worthy of emulation.
THANK YOU, GOD:
For the life of Prof.
For allowing him to serve you with all his might.
For giving him a life of more than four scores.
For taking him without pain.
To God be the Glory.
Rest on till the resurrection morning, when we will meet to part no more.
Your sister-in-law,
Anadu Nkechi Amaka
TRIBUTE TO A GREAT PHARMACIST
I write to express my heartfelt sympathy on the passing of our beloved Daddy, Pharm. Godfrey Obiaga (revered Pharmacy Superintendent).
Having known Pharm. Obiaga for over a decade, I can attest to his dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the pharmaceutical industry. He was a man remarkable integrity, known for his tireless efforts and his unwavering dedication to improving the pharmaceutical industry which was truly admirable and inspiring. His feats in life left indelible marks in the sands of time, more especially in the hearts of his family members and the pharmaceutical industry at large. He never accepted “no” for an answer when it came to progress and excellence.
Working with daddy was truly inspiring and impactful. He taught us the value of doing things the right way, without compromise, and to continuously seek knowledge no matter the circumstance. Pharm. Obiaga was not only a role model but also an icon of peace. His influence will always be remembered, and his sweet memories will forever live in our hearts.
We are deeply grateful to his wonderful family, who honored his wishes and brought him home, ensuring that his legacy remains intact.
I hereby pray for the eternal repose of his soul, while urging the family members and any person(s) his demise has direct impact on to be consoled by his legendary legacies which remain an inspiration to posterity.
Mrs Chinyere Nneji
Managing Director,
For: MONDEC PHARMACY LTD
THE PASSING OF A GIANT
Professor Godfrey Ogbonna Obiaga, has died physically but his legacies live on and will live for ever. Uncle Goddy, as we fondly called him, was an epitome of humility; a rare breed in honesty, a very considerate person and a very clean heart. He was my inlaw, my father, my senior brother, my friend, my teacher and my hero. I learnt from him that though one cannot get rich in this society by being uncompromisingly honest, the gains from honesty, far outweigh any monetary accumulation.Though I was not always with him, but the short time I spent with him in Abuja, was my post graduate period of study in the real values of life. When I told one of the people he mentored in his profession that he was no more, his comment was ‘oh, Mr. integrity is gone’ Another one told me that ‘ this man did not want to chop and he would not allow others to chop’ All these go to show the type of man he was.
Ogom, Uncle Goddy, should be celebrated instead of being mourned. This man knew that his time was fast approaching and he insisted on coming home from Canada because he was always considering other people. He did not want to impose the heavy burden of bringing his body back on his family. That was vintage Uncle Goddy!
We all miss him but I am very certain that he is now resting in the bosom of the Lord. We should all live by the examples he left behind as a befitting tribute to his legacies.
Adieu, my worthy inlaw. ‘Igwe nile jeko n’uzu’ and we will all meet you again.
It’s me, Emeka
August, 2024
I as a person leant a lot of things from him, i will miss you daddy.
May your soul rest in peace Amen 🙏
From Ani chukwuemeka ( Mento Cee)
Mr Obiaga, was a kind, diligent and principled man who exemplified a clear commitment to God, his
family, the public, and his career.
A committed Christian and churchman, he led the Choir at St. Andrew's Church, Zaria, Nigeria, our
local assembly, for many years, drawing in people of all ages, calibres and walks of life. His passion
for good music and his skill at leading the Choir attracted many, from students to nurses, doctors and
even professors. He did indeed build a great Choir.
At the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, where he served as Chief Pharmacist, he was
always very helpful. I will always remember how he helped with my baby who had a rare skin
condition. When nothing on the shelves
worked, he personally formulated a special ointment which worked very well and solved the
problem.
I also remember a time, many years ago, while he and his family still lived in Zaria, that a long
planned official trip of his to Sierra Leone was turned down by the hospital management at the last
minute. Instead of being disappointed, Mr Obiaga's response was that the trip was not God's will,
otherwise, nobody would have been able to turn it down . That reaction has served as a life long
lesson for me as a Christian. The Bible does indeed say "In everything give thanks", (1Thessalonians
5:18).
Mr Obiaga practiced this.
I give God thanks for Mr Obiaga's life, for the lives that he impacted, and for the legacies that he
has left behind.
I am thankful that I got to know him and his beautiful family.
I am thankful that because he knew Jesus, we know that he has now returned to Him.
I am thankful for the promise of eternity to all those who believe, which assures us that we will all be
reunited again someday.
Our faithful Father will certainly take care of my beloved Sister with the lovely family that he has left
behind.
Adieu, till we meet again at Jesus' feet.
Prof (Mrs) Taiwo Gani.
Daddy, you will forever be remembered for your love to my family.
Some natures are not worthy of death, talk much of you.
Daddy, Daddy I called you again. You did all you can and we did all we can too.
What a peaceful death. That was my joy.
You are so caring and loving to your beloved wife even unto death, which made her to cry uncontrollable one early morning after your departure.
Since you came back from Canada, I was with you people till few hours to your dismiss.
Daddy, O di go mma, O ga di mma. That is your word always. I was wondering what you mean by that word.
You showed me and your son unforgettable love. We have nothing to regret. You reap the fruit of your labor. I mean all, are heading home soon or later, all must go. We wish you farewell till we meet to part no more.
Jee ije gi nke oma.
Mrs. Nnoli Maryjane Nkiru
“There’s something in me that will always hunt me if I did not write a tribute to our dearest daddy Goddy which’s that’s how we refer to him often. I would go to visit him as often as I can and many times he will humour me by taking his tablets and eating his meals at the right time.
My name is Mrs Grace Obinyelaku and I am the friend of the family. Although I have met this family once in Abuja I have spent more time with them in Canada where I live now. My dear friend Ifeoma was the robe that drew me more closer to the family. I always admire her the way she loved daddy. I have seen her dedicate her time to see that daddy was medically and attended to. She usually get up daily sending messages and calling up the doctor nurses PSW……to be ready to keep daddy going on come rain come shine. Some of those moments I will gladly help her.
Daddy Goddy usually liked the moments I come to sing for him……in his usual starting style he will go mmmmm……ddddd……sss.
Funny as it may sound this precious moments with him always calmed him down to sleep or take his medications.
The spirit always encouraged me so see him more often on one his serious days and I thank the Lord for giving me the opportunity to serve them in those capacities.
I know that daddy Goddy loved God and right now that he is sitting at his feet smiling at us with joy.
Farewell Daddy Godfrey we shall see you again in heaven.”
Tribute to Pharm Godfrey Ogbonna Obiaga (1933-2024)
This is a tribute to an extraordinary individual, Pharm Godfrey Obiaga, FPSN, FNAPharm, who passed on to glory on August 1st at 10:20 p.m. in Nnewi, Anambra State, at the age of 91 years, 6 months, and 12 days. Born on December 20, 1933, Papa Obiaga was an inspiring and hardworking teacher, mentor, respected by all healthcare professionals and a “father” to many. He was thoroughly trained in Nigeria, Manchester UK 🇬🇧 and Canada 🇨🇦. He was a major contributor to the advancement of pharmacy practice in the UK, Canada, and Nigeria, covering community, academic and hospital pharmacy practices. His legacy, particularly as the author of the Unit Dose Dispensing System in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria in Nigeria, is a testament to his profound impact on the pharmacy field and beyond.
Pharm Godfrey Obiaga was an educator and a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. His dedication to teaching and mentorship was unparalleled, and he was a guiding light for countless students who had the privilege of learning from him. His innovative work in developing the Unit Dose Dispensing System in Nigeria revolutionised pharmaceutical practices and showcased his commitment to advancing healthcare in the country.
As a mentor, Papa Obiaga provided unwavering support and guidance to those navigating their academic and professional journeys. His insights and advice were invaluable, and his influence will be felt for generations. He was a model of integrity, hard work, and excellence, which he instilled in everyone who crossed his path.
Beyond his professional achievements, Papa Obiaga was a father figure to many. His kindness, patience, and compassion endeared him to all who knew him. He was a pillar of strength and a source of comfort, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. His life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and service to others.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his students, friends, and family. Although we will miss his presence, we believe we will be reunited with him in the Lord’s kingdom. During this time of mourning, we pray for strength and comfort for his family. May the Lord bring healing to your spirits and continue to bless you all.
As we reflect on Papa Obiaga’s life, we celebrate his positive impact on so many lives and the enduring legacies he leaves behind. His teachings, mentorship, and fatherly guidance will continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of those he touched. His contributions to pharmacy and his dedication to his community will never be forgotten.
Please accept our sincerest condolences. May Pharm Godfrey Obiaga's soul rest in perfect peace.
With deep sympathy.
Prof Lere Baale
Business School Netherlands International
I was a young priest posted to St. Andrew’s Church Zaria 1982. It was a small colonial church with expatriates and Nigerians who were mostly senior staff and lecturers of Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria.
After my first service in the church Mr. Godfrey Obiaga introduced himself to me as the choirmaster. A soft spoken gentleman with such humility you would never imagine of man of his stature as chief Pharmacist of the Teaching Hospital. We became friends not minding the age difference between us. We regularly discussed hymns for each worship and did I learn so much from Godfrey. He was a raised Anglican from cradle and now to his grave. He loved the Lord Jesus and loved Bible based sermons and he will always commend good exposition of the Bible. He introduced me to his lovely family. I learnt so much from Godfrey, his kindness and love for his three daughters and his wife.
All glory to the Lord, Godfrey has finally gone to be with the Lord he loved so much and serve in his journey on earth. His place in the choir of heaven is kept where he will sing and see Jesus face to face whom he worshipped and served here on earth.
Adieu Godfrey…
Ben & Gloria Kwashi
Most Revd. Benjamin Argak Kwashi O.O.N (Retied Bishop of Jos)
D.Min(TSM Ambridge) D.D. (Wisconsin) B.D.(TCNN Bukuru)
Matthew 6:33... “Always seeking first the kingdom of God”
Though it is sad that you are gone, I take solace in knowing that you are in heaven with God. You've left behind a beautiful legacy, and everyone who remembers you will only have good things to say. I love you, sir. Rest in peace.
Till we meet again!
Your sacrificial service in the pharmacy profession was tangible, palpable and very impactful.
As your work on earth is done, your Maker has called you to rest. Rest in peace till we meet to part no more. Adieu
You completed your stay on mother earth and bowed out gallantly in peaceful cruise .
You had peace in you and followed all persons that came your way with peace.
Your godliness merged with your simplicity made me wonder if you held from this part of the earth with the rest of us.
With your early high standard of education in prestigious pharmacy profession acquired from prestigious Universities of the western world, you displayed no ungodly pride and ergo.
You chose to educate and impact in every one that came your way.
My experience with you all the years in associating with you shaped my life to great transformation.
Your abilities and zealousness to " what should be done must be done very well''
You did not accept half hazard jobs. You cherished hard and honest persons, and never let go without rewards, even when it was not easy.
Your sacrificial and contented life style is unequal to any other.
Your devoted service and reverence to God demarcated you from fellow educated persons such as you in obvious ways.
For you money and earthly delights were secondary or nothing..
Daddy, you made landmarks in various people lives, and I am one of such.
I am, but celebrating you and your peaceful manner of departure.
Farewell. Sleep in your Rest. May the Lord Jesus Christ grant you portion in Him,in His paradise. Amen.
Cheta.
My earliest memory of Goddy goes back to 1954 when I was eight years old. His father and my father worked in the same Anglican parish in Okpuala, in Abia state. He had left Government College Umuahia by the time I arrived there in 1960. However, I met up with him again in Toronto, along with his brother, Tim, and wife, Ifeoma, in the late sixties when I was a student at the University of Toronto. As a bachelor, whenever I was hungry for Nigerian food I headed to his place to eat Ifeoma's cooking. When Roni and I got married in 1970, Goddy, Tim, and Ifeoma not only helped to plan our wedding, but Goddy took all the wedding photos free of charge. When we returned to Nigeria in 1982 Roni and I made sure to drop in and visit Goddy and Ifeoma in Zaria. We found that they were already fast family friends with my younger brother Azike and his family who also lived in Zaria at the time. Over the years, when tragedies befell my family, Goddy was there at my village to commiserate with us. I have kept in touch with him and Ifeoma these past few years while they lived in Mississauga and was sorry to see them return to Nigeria a couple of months ago.
Goddy was a wonderful human being, a giving and caring person. I will miss a life-long and dear friend. May God grant his soul eternal rest.
Chike Okechukwu,
Prof. Emeritus,
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
As the word of God well expressed in Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, which says that "To everything, there is a season, a time to every purpose under heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to pluck up that which was planted".
Daddy, it's your time to pass on to go and be with your creator.
You lived a good life here on earth, full of love for others, care for all that came across you.
You taught me how to be punctual in every appointment, cleanliness, sincerity and a lot more.
I remember when I finished my secondary education and there was this suggestion of abandoning my education and going into trading.
You came to Nnewi on holiday and when you got wind of what was at stake, you promised to see me through university education and fulfilled it.
There are so many fond memories about your impact in my life and that of my wife.
I am consoled by St Paul's admonition in I Thessalonians 4:13, that we should not mourn like people without hope.
Rest on Daddy, till we meet to part no more.
ISRAEL AND ADA OBIAGA.
I am sad to see you leave us but i also thank God that i got to experience the gem of a man you were.
The influence you had in my life when i had just married into the Obiaga’s family at such a tender age is story i can’t forget in a hurry.
How you were more excited than me when i got my nursing admission, the advice you gave me still seem fresh in my head. Especially the mind blowing enveloped gift you gave me that contained not only cash but the same advice you gave neatly written with prayers for me to succeed.
That was all the motivation a young woman like me needed at that time and you were available.
I saw in you a father in law I couldn’t have, thanks for the quality of advice you gave to my husband Innocent Obiaga. You were always there for him and my mother inlaw during those years. I couldn't have asked for a better father in-law figure. You were a kind man.
May you enjoy your stay with God.
Adieu prof!!
Brother m, the day have finally come where I will have to say goodbye. You were cherished by the whole family because you were very caring, generous, God fearing, wise and mature. You so loved your darling wife, your sweet children, your brothers and sisters. You were not just our brother, you were our father.
Nwanne m, you had a personal relationship with God that made you remain steadfast. Everyone appreciated you as the Papa of the family.
Brother, you always stood by the truth and you lived a life worthy of emulation but I am consoled because with your kind and gentle nature, I know you're with the lord.(Ka osi so chukwu ka osi mee ya, Ebee omasiri chineke nnam, omasirim).
I have no doubt that you are resting in the bosom of your creator.
Nwannem Nwannem I am still in doubt.
Adieu my brother.
Rest in peace till we meet to part no more.
Uche Nwosu and family.
With a heart filled with gratitude, I pay tribute to my dear uncle, a man of truth and discipline. You were indeed a good man. I admired you for being a peacemaker, a dedicated family man. Your fatherly advice shaped the way I view life, you were so contented. I learned so much from you. One of the most important lessons I learnt from you was how to treat my wife with love and respect just like you treated your wife. There are so many things which I cannot put down here. Your legacies will continue to live on through the values you shared, the moments you created and the lives you touched.
As I bid you farewell, may the light of God brighten your path to eternal rest in the mighty name of Jesus.
Adieu prof!!
Godfrey and Ifeoma lived with us in Toronto Canada before they left for home a few months ago. Our families bonded, as we saw in Godfrey the exemplary Igbo man with his wife who he called "Mummy" with fun and love.
His humility and honesty endeared him to us. His professional history is of World class as he was well respected here in Canada and around the world. His brilliance in his academic and professional bubbles not withstanding, Godfrey was down to earth and level headed. He was a member of the Igbo Canadian Seniors Association Toronto where we worked together to promote Igbo culture and unity. In 2016 he delivered a powerful presentation to Igbo Youths on a topic 'Life Experiences' which captivated the Youths and the entire audience.
On behalf of my family and the Igbo Canadian Seniors Association Toronto, I say, Godfrey, Adieu and may God give you rest.
A Tribute to Uncle G
At ninety years, a life well-spent, With laughter bright and heart content, A jolly spirit, bold and kind, A soul in whom true joy we’d find.
Your days were lived with zest and cheer, A journey marked by love sincere, You embraced each phase, a life replete, With every dawn, new dreams to meet.
As my Dad’s eldest brother, strong and true, You taught them all what life can do, A Christian’s grace, a proper way, Your faith a light to guide each day.
Reinvented self, a constant spark, In every role, you left a mark, Your laughter echoed, warm and clear, In every heart, you’re ever near.
We celebrate the life you led, The trails you blazed, the paths you tread, And though you’ve left our side today, Your legacy won’t fade away.
In memory’s embrace, you’ll stay, A guiding star, a beacon’s ray, For Uncle, we’ll remember still, The life you lived and the love you instilled.
There are a lot of things to say about you dear uncle, your love , kindness ,advice towards me was not taken for granted. I remember during my wedding you were they one that took me to church and walked me down the aisle. You were just a blessing to my life with just mentioning your name to the vice chancellor of futo in the year (1981) I was given a job, you where recognized without your being there. You are a lover of God , you never play with your job, you said your salary is enough for you , I never forget your envelope to me even at old age , never late for anything , a very good man you always give me advice when I call about my health ,farewell Daddy I miss you so much uncle.
Rest in peace
Nkiru Ijeomah (Obiaga)
Goddy Ifedi
This is a tribute to an extraordinary individual, Pharm Godfrey Obiaga, FPSN, FNAPharm, who passed on to glory on August 1st at 10:20 p.m. in Nnewi, Anambra State, at the age of 91 years, 6 months, and 12 days. Born on December 20, 1933, Papa Obiaga was an inspiring and hardworking teacher, mentor, respected by all healthcare professionals and a “father” to many. He was thoroughly trained in Nigeria, Manchester UK 🇬🇧 and Canada 🇨🇦. He was a major contributor to the advancement of pharmacy practice in the UK, Canada, and Nigeria, covering community, academic and hospital pharmacy practices. His legacy, particularly as the author of the Unit Dose Dispensing System in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria in Nigeria, is a testament to his profound impact on the pharmacy field and beyond.
Pharm Godfrey Obiaga was an educator and a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. His dedication to teaching and mentorship was unparalleled, and he was a guiding light for countless students who had the privilege of learning from him. His innovative work in developing the Unit Dose Dispensing System in Nigeria revolutionised pharmaceutical practices and showcased his commitment to advancing healthcare in the country.
As a mentor, Papa Obiaga provided unwavering support and guidance to those navigating their academic and professional journeys. His insights and advice were invaluable, and his influence will be felt for generations. He was a model of integrity, hard work, and excellence, which he instilled in everyone who crossed his path.
Beyond his professional achievements, Papa Obiaga was a father figure to many. His kindness, patience, and compassion endeared him to all who knew him. He was a pillar of strength and a source of comfort, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. His life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and service to others.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his students, friends, and family. Although we will miss his presence, we believe we will be reunited with him in the Lord’s kingdom. During this time of mourning, we pray for strength and comfort for his family. May the Lord bring healing to your spirits and continue to bless you all.
As we reflect on Papa Obiaga’s life, we celebrate his positive impact on so many lives and the enduring legacies he leaves behind. His teachings, mentorship, and fatherly guidance will continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of those he touched. His contributions to pharmacy and his dedication to his community will never be forgotten.
Please accept our sincerest condolences. May Pharm Godfrey Obiaga's soul rest in perfect peace.
With deep sympathy.
Prof Lere Baale
Business School Netherlands International
Sent from my iPhone
Rest in peace sir. You lived well
Mr. Obiaga was more than just a family friend; he was someone who made a lasting impact on my life. I remember the day he told me how well-spoken he thought I was. His words were sincere, and I believed him wholeheartedly. Aside from my father, he was one of the few people who spoke to me with such honesty, and I cherished that deeply.
I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to see him again and visit with him after returning to Canada. However, I can't help but feel that I missed more chances to have those meaningful and respectful conversations that I always valued with him.
Mr. Obiaga was a kind man, always a pleasure to talk to, and his warmth and sincerity will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. My heartfelt condolences go out to you all for this tremendous loss.
We attended the same church St Andrew's Anglican Church GRA Zaria.
Both families were very close The Ogboli family and the Obiaga family.
Our mother's were quite close. Uzonna is a good friend.
And when I was in medical school, in Ahmadu Bello University, he was was the chief Pharmacist.
A very kind and helpful man.
Very meticulous.
He took me to his office to help me with books in 1990 during my housemanship in ABUTH Zaria. When my mother died in 2004 he was so upset and sent his deepest condolences. 💔
When he learnt of the passing of our dad in 2018 he was deeply saddened.
We share with the family at this difficult time.
I will miss his calm and welcoming voice.
Rest in peace, in the bosom of the Lord Amen 🙏🏾
Mummy Obiaga please take heart ❤️
Uzo, ify, Nene and Nnana please be strong.
God be with you till we meet again 🙏🏾 Amen
A Tribute to a Legendary Leader and Mentor
We bid farewell to a giant, a trailblazer, and a shining star in the pharmaceutical industry, Mr. Godfrey Obiaga. His passing at 90 leaves an indelible mark on our lives and the countless individuals he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
As the pioneer Head of Pharmacy at National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria, Mr. Obiaga set the gold standard for excellence, dedication, and professionalism. His meticulous attention to detail, unwavering discipline, and unrelenting pursuit of perfection inspired a generation of pharmacists and healthcare professionals.
To me and many others, he was more than a boss – he was a mentor, a friend, and a father figure. His guidance, wisdom, and encouragement helped shape our careers and lives. His legacy extends far beyond the hospital walls, as he instilled values of hard work, integrity, and compassion in all who crossed his path.
We remember his warm smile, his infectious jokes, and his kindness. We celebrate his remarkable life, his achievements, and the impact he had on our lives. Rest in peace, dear Mr. Obiaga. Your memory is a blessing to us all. Rest in peace Sir 🙏
Proverbs 10:6-7 NIV
[6] Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overhelms the mouth of the wicked. [7] The name of the righteous is used in blessings, but the name of the wicked will rot.
A gentleman of great repute, a man of integrity with a spirit of excellence - that was Godfrey Obiaga.
I have so many memories of him and so much to be thankful for about him. Was he not a role model for me, showing me that in the midst of corruption one can stay true and stand tall? A man of humility - he made room
for everyone he knew and was always willing to teach people and meet them at the point where they were - he stooped to conquer.
And did he not broaden the minds of so many, starting with me? He gave free access to his national geographic magazine collection. Though precious to him, his love for learning and for enabling others meant that he never held this precious gift of knowledge back.
A man of refinement - was it not he who on a visit to my parents house in Lagos, taught us children how to use a fork and knife properly? It is because of him that we entered into certain places and dined with confidence? I am so grateful to him for his grace and patience with us.
A giver, a peace maker, a man of integrity and a whole institution of excellence in himself- this was and is the legacy of Godfrey Obiaga.
And so I mourn the passing of a great man, while the heavens rejoice at the return of one of the saints. He came, he made a huge impact and he has returned to God empty of his talents and fulfilled. Imela Nwoke oma! (you have done well oh good man!)
Thank you uncle G as you were fondly called. I love you
and thank God for all that you were and all the good that you did. Je nke oma. Until we meet again.
Never in all my life did I ever imagine that he will not always be by my side. It is well!
My husband (Dim Oma) loved God and His Word. He worshipped and served God joyfully and sincerely.
Godfrey was a gentleman to the core, always behaved appropriately and treated everyone who came his way like a friend, and would put out himself to help in any way he could. No one was too little or deserved to be ignored. He was nice to everyone he met, even when he or she was not friendly to him.
My good husband (Dim Oma) was a man of many parts – a pharmacist by profession, the calling he loved very passionately, that he mentored and acted like a father to many of the younger pharmacists. When his first daughter opted to study pharmacy, he was so overjoyed, and hugged her as if she was already a qualified pharmacist.
He was a wonderful photographer. He wanted to record almost every event in motion. He was a gardener and a farmer, a writer and an orator. He was a choirmaster and could sing all the four parts of every hymn in the church hymnal.
My wonderful husband (Dim Oma) loved church songs. Some of his favourite hymns include Man of Sorrows, What a Name, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less, and Rock of Ages Cleft for Me. His most repeated statement before he died, in his last days was “Jesus is the Answer.”
My humble and kind sweetheart (Dim Oma) loved me and our four children dearly. He loved his brothers and sisters very much. All his relatives, uncles, aunties, cousins, nieces, and nephews, grand children and great grandchild. He loved and also treated them kindly. He would help in any way possible for him to make them better.
Goddy (Dim Oma) did everything he had to do very well and would teach anyone around to get to the same standard. He would teach and demonstrate until the person did it well. All he did, he did lovingly and patiently. No work was too hard or too mean for him to do in order to help people perform whatever task better the next time. He would go as far as washing and ironing a house help’s clothes so that they would learn to do it well the next time. He was a patient and good instructor to any student or pupil.
Mr. Obiaga always taught by example; at work with subordinates or at home among his wife, children and relatives in the house. He considered everyone a child of God who deserved to be loved and treated kindly.
Goddy, my good husband (Dim Oma) was an honourable man; a nice and loving husband and friend. He was also my dictionary and encyclopaedia. I needed only to ask the question and, voila! He would pop up the answer. I loved him very much and I am missing him miserably. His children all loved him and cannot imagine that when they come home, Daddy will not be there to hug them. They are all missing him very much already, His brothers, sisters and relations will miss him. His dear friends will also miss him. All his children-by-extension are already missing him.
Nevertheless, our loving Father in heaven, Jehovah, the Creator of Heaven and Earth and all that is in them has called him to rest from work and all the troubles of this world. DIM OMA, you answered His call of the one who loves you eternally, leaving us behind. Oh no! Now that my husband is gone, what has become of me and my children? I have become a widow, and my children fatherless. But thank God, He has become my Defender, and my children His children. Alleluia. We are consoled by His Word that we shall meet again soon! What a joyful day it will be. Alleluia.
Oh Lord, Your Name is Jehovah, the Maker of Heaven and earth. You will never share Your glory with anyone, Almighty God. That is Your name. I give You praise and thanks for all You have been doing for me and my family. Father, You took us out and brought us back home at the appropriate time. Who is like unto Thee, oh Lord? None. None. Please take all the glory. Thanks and majesty to the Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen and Amen!!
All will be well!!
All, all is well!!
All must be well!!
Family tree
Favorites
Service
Funeral Service - Thursday, October 17
Thanksgiving - Sunday, October 20
The exact time for each event will be communicated in due course.