‘Journey Well, My Excellency EEU’: Okagbare Pays Tribute To Uduaghan

Former Nigerian sprint queen Blessing Okagbare has paid an emotional tribute to former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, acknowledging his personal support for her growth, career and life.

Uduaghan died on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71. He governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, a period during which Okagbare won three of her major global medals.

In a heartfelt message, Okagbare described the late former governor as a ‘real and rare’ individual whose love, support and intentions towards people were genuine.

‘They say goodbyes are indeed the hardest, and this one is extremely hard to say,’ she wrote.

‘Thank you for everything. Thank you for how intentional you were about my growth, career and life.’

The Olympic and World Championships medalist also praised Uduaghan for understanding her professional ambitions and providing support and encouragement when she needed them.

‘To someone who didn’t play politics with my career and understood the game and the timing of it all, I salute you,’ she added.

‘Not all heroes wear capes. One of the finest at it all.

‘Journey well, My Excellency EEU.’

Okagbare’s tribute highlights the personal relationship between the celebrated athlete and the former governor, whose eight-year tenure coincided with some of the defining moments of her international career.

She won the women’s long jump silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a year after Uduaghan assumed office as governor.

At the 2013 World Athletics Championships in Moscow, Russia, Okagbare claimed silver in the long jump and bronze in the women’s 200m, becoming one of Nigeria’s leading figures on the global athletics stage.

Uduaghan’s tenure ended in May 2015, having served two terms as governor.

His death has prompted tributes from political leaders and others who remember his years in public service and the relationships he built during and after his time in office.