President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chief Arthur Christopher Mbanefo, a former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, who died at the age of 95.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Chief Mbanefo as an accounting icon, accomplished administrator, and elder statesman whose life was marked by integrity, hard work, and unwavering patriotism.
Chief Mbanefo served Nigeria in several high-profile capacities, including as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Ahmadu Bello University. He was also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, and was widely regarded as a pioneer in Nigeria’s accounting, tax, and audit systems.
President Tinubu noted that the late statesman distinguished himself in public service through dedication and a strong sense of duty, while his contributions in the private sector helped shape professional standards in the country’s financial and accounting landscape.
The president extended his condolences to the Mbanefo family, as well as to the government and people of Anambra State, and to friends and professional associates of the deceased.
He urged Nigerians to take solace in the enduring legacy of Chief Mbanefo, whose contributions, he said, remain firmly etched in the nation’s development history.
President Tinubu also prayed for the repose of Chief Mbanefo’s soul and for comfort for his family during this period of mourning.
