Legacy of Excellence: Benin Honors Renowned Surgeon and Academic, Emeritus Professor Sir Reginald Ofoegbu​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick The academic, medical, and religious communities of Benin City came together in profound tribute this week to celebrate the extraordinary life of The Rt. Hon. Chevalier Emeritus Prof. Sir. Reginald Ogu Ofoegbu, KSG, KSM, affirming the cherished belief that "at Death Life is changed not ended."​Professor Ofoegbu was a true colossus who blazed a trail through the medical field with remarkable dexterity, serving as an accomplished Consultant and skillful Surgeon. His exemplary service was defined by

Legacy of Excellence: Benin Honors Renowned Surgeon and Academic, Emeritus Professor Sir Reginald Ofoegbu

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

The academic, medical, and religious communities of Benin City came together in profound tribute this week to celebrate the extraordinary life of The Rt. Hon. Chevalier Emeritus Prof. Sir. Reginald Ogu Ofoegbu, KSG, KSM, affirming the cherished belief that "at Death Life is changed not ended."

​Professor Ofoegbu was a true colossus who blazed a trail through the medical field with remarkable dexterity, serving as an accomplished Consultant and skillful Surgeon. His exemplary service was defined by administrative brilliance and mentorship, particularly during his distinguished tenure at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), where he held pivotal roles, including Ag. Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Dean of Surgery, Head of Surgery, and Provost.

​Beyond his towering professional achievements, Sir Reginald was celebrated as a man of deep and extraordinary faith. A passionate and dedicated Catholic, his immense generosity and decades of service to the Church earned him the high honour of being recognized by the Pope as a Papal Knight of St. Gregory the Great (KSG), in addition to being a Knight of St. Mulumba (KSM). He notably served as the Pioneer Chairman of the Archdiocese of Benin Medical Council.

​The final rites commenced with a solemn Vigil Mass held at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Benin, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Akubeze, who served as the chief celebrant, while the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Ujah Ejembi, SJ, delivered a heartfelt Homily centered on the lessons learned from the life of Chevalier Ofoegbu.

​The tribute continued the following day with an elegant and emotional All-White Dressed Night of Tribute held at the Horatio Marquee. The evening was expertly steered by the Premium MC-Patriot James Urhere, KSM, alongside renowned comedian Bovi Ugboma. The ambiance was set by the Benin Chorale Society, which welcomed the audience with amazing classics before the formal proceedings began with opening prayers and an exhortation from Fr. Gabriel Ujah Ejembi, SJ.

​Throughout the evening, which skillfully balanced solemnity with light moments, various personalities and groups spoke eloquently on the sterling qualities of the Emeritus Professor. The MC-Patriot masterfully navigated the event, injecting hilarious and matured jokes and discourse to ensure the evening was resonantly celebratory rather than overly emotional, punctuated by musical interludes from the Chorale.

​Heartfelt tributes were received from influential figures, including: Prince Nosa Aideyan, President of the Benin Branch of St. Patrick College, Asaba Old boys Association; Rt. Hon. Chevalier. Dr. John Richard Iyasere, KSG, Chairman of the Archdiocese of Benin Association of Papal Knights; Sir. Engr. Sunday Eghowanre, Deputy Grand Knight of Uselu Sub Council of KSM; and Sir. Joseph Enaromhe, Past Grand Knight and Secretary of the Archdiocese of Benin College of Knights. His distinguished colleagues and associates also shared reflections, including: Prof. Stanley Okugbo, CMAC, UBTH; Emeritus Prof. Chevalier Sir Julius & Lady. Prof. Maltilda Ikhatua, KSG, KSM; Hon. Justice Anthony Olotu Akpovi; Barr. Mrs. Sadoh, Provost of the College of Nursing Science; Prof. Mrs. Christy Okojie; Prof. Mon Nwadiani; and Mrs. Elizabeth Uganda.

​The familial essence of his life was captured in a touching presentation of his Biography by one of his daughters, and a Video Montage of his life and times displayed on the large screens. The collective tribute from his six successful children was delivered by Mrs. Theresa Akomode, and poignant video tributes from his grandchildren were coordinated by Nogzi Chukwuma and Chika Osuji.

​Professor Sir Reginald Ofoegbu was a dedicated family man who is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Lady. Prof. Felicia Ofoegbu, and their six amazing and accomplished children: Dr. Bibian Ofoegbu, Dr. Simone Otoibhi, Dr. Hadran Ofoegbu, Mrs. Stephanie Olisagu, Mrs. Theresa Akomode, and Mrs. Regina Okonkwo. The moving evening concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by his daughter Simone Otoibhi and the closing prayers led by Rev. Fr. Ujah, SJ.