Memories of Love: A Farewell to Mrs Evelyn Erere Azeza 1953-2025

The last two days of February 2026 will remain significant for the Azeza family as they welcomed friends and extended family members of the late Mrs Evelyn Erere Azeza (Nee Okpro) to bid her a final goodbye.

Mrs Azeza Funeral Announcement

Mrs Azeza passed on at the age of 72, leaving a profound legacy of love, service, and faith that enriched her family, the civil service, and her church community. 

The funeral activities commenced with a Service of Songs on Friday, 27th February at the Christ Victorious International Churches (CVIC) Phase 2 Site 2, Kubwa.

The service began with a lively session of songs in celebration and praise to God, leading up to the recognition and welcome of guests who travelled from within and outside Abuja to honour the memory of the late Mrs Azeza; notably, the wife of the Deputy Governor of Benue State.

Mrs Evelyn Azeza Service of Songs

Portions of the Bible were read from the books of 2Samuel 12:16-23 and 1 Corinthians 15, taken by Mr David and Samuel Azeza, the third and last of Mrs Azeza’s four sons.

Her biography, read by Mr Stanley Azeza (son), succinctly captured her early life and the trajectory of her career in the civil service of Nigeria, where she had the opportunity to serve in both geographical extremes of Maiduguri and Lagos before settling and retiring in Kubwa, Abuja.

Proceeding with the Service of Song, gracefully conducted by Pastor Favour Amadi, tributes were read and spoken by representatives of her former office, her family and her long-time friend, Mrs Lami Henna, who travelled in from Maiduguri. She recalled the depth of their friendship, their spiritual connection, their exploits, and the grace that practically made them sisters.

Pastor Favour Amadi CVIC

Exhorting the gathering, the preacher for the service, Pastor Toba Ifabiyi, spoke about learning more from the place of mourning than from the place of celebration. In the place of mourning, it’s easier to learn the fleeting nature of life and be inspired to live ready every day with the knowledge that one can be called home at any time.

Pastors Favour Amadi and Toba Ifabiyi

Prayers were said over the immediate and the extended family of the great matriarch for God’s protection and for the grace to sustain her legacy.

On Saturday, the 28th, the family, in the company of supportive friends, made their way to Gudu Cemetery, where the body was interred under a bright morning sky that was possibly a reflection of what Mrs Azeza meant to many who were present there.

The graveside was yet another opportunity for Pastor Ifabiyi to remind the grieving audience to live lives that positively touch others. To be kind, generous and helpful, knowing that what we do is what creates our legacy, not the things we acquire.

The Assistant General Overseer CVIC, Pastor Femi Ogunrinde, reiterated the charge given by Pastor Toba and, in addition, urged all to live with the knowledge that each day could be their last. He urged all present to walk in God’s ways and live ready for eternity at all times.

The coffin was lowered solemnly as tearful emotions were expressed by members of the family who struggled to say their final goodbyes.

Kenneth being consoled

In a tribute to this beloved mother, Mr Stanley described her as an anchor, shield, intercessor and prayer warrior for them. He went on to add that his mother brought them up “in the fear and love of God, respect for humanity and to be disciplined”. 

Mr Stanley Azeza

Mr Kenneth, in eulogising Mrs Azeza recalled the difficult times his mother stood firm for them and the sacrifice she made for the family. About his mother, he said she “taught me to believe in myself, to be strong and determined…to dream”. The second sone identified his mother as the reason for his own tenacity, “the fabric of my DNA…life mentor…friend”.

Mr Kenneth Azeza

Mr David had so much to say but was only able to summarise them in two words: “thank you”. His gratitude covers the selfless way his mother loved them and “being the best mother anyone could ever have”. He said, “Thank you for showing us by example how to love God and fellow man”.

David and Samuel Azeza

“My mother is a woman like no other. I say “is” even in death because love like hers does not end, it transforms. She lives forever, rent-free in my heart, through her laughter, her strength, and the gentle way she taught me what genuine love and care truly means.” These were the words with which Mr Samuel paid tribute to his mother, who corrected him and kissed his fears away, wrapping him in love that made him question how much he deserved it.

The sons were united in declaring their mother’s deep love for them and in gratitude to her.

Bishop Paul Aigboje of Christ Victorious International Churches, where she served as a deaconess, described her as a “wonderful, compassionate, loving, caring, honest, and dedicated woman of God”. He went on to add, “Your contribution to the CVIC family cannot be forgotten…may your memory continue to live in our hearts in Jesus name”.

Guests at Service of Songs

The family had a reception for guests who came in solidarity with them, and they used the opportunity to thank family and friends for sharing the moment with them.

We at InsideKubwa.com join the family in celebrating all the joy the late Mrs Evelyn Azeza brought to her family and to all who loved her.