Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Saturday, led tributes at the funeral reception of the late Deaconess Eno Nnana Usoro, mother of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Deputy Governor, Ms. Emem Nnana Usoro, describing her as a woman whose life reflected grace, faith, and selfless service to humanity.
At the event held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Shettima said the late matriarch’s enduring legacy lives on through her children, particularly Ms. Emem Usoro, whom he called “a mother’s dream fulfilled.”
“The exemplary Ms. Emem Nnana Usoro is a daughter her mother could not have been prouder of. She stands today as the embodiment of a mother’s dream fulfilled, a story defined by sacrifice, prayer, and perseverance,” the Vice President said.
Shettima described the CBN Deputy Governor’s rise as the fruit of a mother’s conviction that faith, hard work, and excellence were non-negotiable virtues.
“The height Ms. Usoro has attained in public service tells the story of a mother who refused mediocrity, one who believed her child could compete with the best minds in the world while remaining anchored in faith,” he added.
The Vice President noted that Deaconess Usoro was not only a mother but also a pillar of the church, a mentor to women, and a benefactor to the less privileged.
He said her life was “a sermon in compassion and humility”, teaching her family that “excellence without empathy is emptiness.”
“Those who live in the service of others never truly die,” Shettima declared. “They are resurrected in every act of goodness that continues in their name.”
On behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government, Shettima extended condolences to the Usoro family, describing the late Deaconess’ life as “a ministry of kindness and a legacy that will outlive her.”
He urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from her example, noting that true success is nurtured by love, discipline, and prayer.
“Let us not say Mama is gone; let us say she has gone home to rest from her labours,” the Vice President prayed.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, also eulogised the deceased, noting that “when the ovation is high at one’s passing, it means they touched many lives.”
He commended Ms. Usoro for honouring her mother with a befitting farewell, thanking the Vice President for honouring the invitation.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Deaconess Usoro as “an angel heaven is proud to receive,” lauding the Usoro family for their devotion and the dignity of the ceremony.
“My dear sister, Ms. Emem Usoro, thank you for making Akwa Ibom proud,” Akpabio said. “The ovation with which you have sent your mother home reflects her impact on countless lives.”
Other dignitaries present included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; members of the National and State Assemblies; CBN officials; top bank executives; and members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council.
They joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating a life devoted to faith, service, and the nurturing of excellence.
