The President-General of of pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu is dead.
He died less than two months to his 82nd birthday.
His death was confirmed in a statement by Jide Iwuanyanwu, the son of the late Chief Emmanuel.
Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday after a brief illness at the age of 81 years.
The late Chief Iwuanyanwu was a celebrated icon of Ndigbo, and owned business interests.
He is survived by his wife, Frances Chinonyerem and their seven children.
Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s Brief Biography
Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was an accomplished Nigerian businessman, politician, and philanthropist.
He hailed from Atta in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.
Over the decades, he established himself as a major player in various sectors, ranging from construction and publishing to sports and politics.
Iwuanyanwu founded several companies, the most prominent being Hardel and Enic Construction Company, which contributed significantly to Nigeria’s infrastructural development.
He also had a profound impact on the media industry as the proprietor of Champion Newspapers.
In the realm of sports, Iwuanyanwu was the owner of the popular football club Iwuanyanwu Nationale, now known as Heartland FC.
His contributions to sports earned him recognition and respect within and beyond Nigeria.
Politically, Iwuanyanwu was an influential figure.
He served in various capacities, including as a member of the Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
His leadership in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide showed his commitment to the advancement and unity of the Igbo people.
Throughout his life, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu received numerous awards and honours for his contributions to business, sports, and public service.