Nigerian Diplomat Dies in Guinea-Bissau After Brief Illness.

By Caroline Ameh

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the death of Mrs. Zainab Joy Momodu, Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to Guinea-Bissau. She passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the Military Hospital in Bissau following a brief illness.

Mrs. Momodu, a seasoned diplomat, joined the Nigerian Foreign Service in 2010 as part of the 20th Regular Course of the Foreign Service Academy. She was widely recognized for her professionalism, dedication, and steadfast service to Nigeria’s diplomatic mission over the years.

In an official statement signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, her death was described as a “profound loss” not only to the Foreign Service but also to the diplomatic community and the nation at large.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its heartfelt condolences to her immediate family, colleagues, and friends at this difficult time,” the statement said. “We pray for the peaceful repose of her soul and for divine comfort for all who mourn her.”

Until her passing, Mrs. Momodu was serving as the Acting Head of Mission in Guinea-Bissau. Her contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy and the promotion of national interests on the global stage were widely acknowledged and respected.

Details of her funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by her family in due course.