How time flies. Beloved Nowa, your lovely spirit lives on in the heart of all those that loved you. You can never be forgotten. Erinmwin nuye evbu evbu, Continue to abide in heaven love.in Jesus Nane..

Three years today!! Time really flies.

Two years since you transcended to be with Our Lord we still miss you dearly as if it was yesterday.
We miss your powerful and fearless contributions to thorny issues;
We miss your ability, forthrightness and capacity to reach out and douse brewing conflicts; 
We miss your positive reflections on issues concerning the wellbeing of our people.
Above all we miss your laughter, smiles and friendship.
You live on Nowa Omoigui in our hearts as you continue to rest in Peace.

Just like yesterday Nowamagbe, but it is already 2year since you left. I miss our gistingwhen we visited each other. Rest in peace my dear broda. It is well with the family you left behind and your soul. Dr Fidelis Uwensuyi-Edosomwan

The life we give, is the life we keep.
Is Jesus' exegesis, as the gospels speak.
Whoever gives nothing,
For sure keeps nothing!
Nowa, because you gave much,
Hence to dwell on, we have much.
The truth is just bare,
That your kind is rare!

Nowa it still hurts thinking of your passing. May you continue to Rest In Peace.

WOW!! Nowa, two year’s already. It was just like yesterday that you were snatched away from us. Continue to Rest In Peace!!

Nowamagbe Omoigui my dear cousin and friend may your soul continue to rest in peace in the bosom of the lord.

Dear Nowa, continue to rest in peace in the bosom of our Lord. Today you would have been 63. May God continue to keep and bless your wife, children and loved ones. Adesuwa Omonuwa.

Dear Uncle Nowa, We remember you today in a special way on what would have been your 63rd birthday. May you continue to rest peacefully in the Lord's bosom.
-Cynthia Enahoro

My beloved Nowa, you can never ever be forgotten. Your gentle soul will continue to abide in heavenly love in Jesus Name.

My dear broda and friend Nowamagbe Omoigui may your soul continue to rest in peace. It is well with your soul as you continue to sit in the bosom of the almighty God. Dr Fidelis Edosomwan

Dear Moira,

This is Amy Cheatham from Case Law School. I am so deeply sorry to learn of your loss. I'm praying for you and your family. I would love to be in touch with you -- 216.533.5812.

Peace & love,
Amy

The world has so many geniuses, but he was not just one of several, Dr. Nowa Omoigui was a standalone intellectual giant! Though I never met him in person, I have interacted with him on the forum Edo Nation and other Edo networks. What a brain, what a class act! He imparted knowledge on any topic so freely, intensely, and deeply. His forte of course being military history – he narrated incidents as though he was an eye-witness and you’d assimilated them as though you were watching events unfolding. Yes, he was that good in his ability to communicate. 

Hunters do not go to the forest unprepared. You do not engage Nowa without arming yourself with a deep understanding of the topic you were going to challenge him on. Most times you would lose the argument anyway. He knew so much and so well. Dr. Omoigui exuded excellence, commitment, and respect. He demonstrated so much reverence for cultural values, his people, and as moderator, to Edo Nation and African networks!  Thank you, Nowa! 

May the Lord almighty grant his family, friends, and others who knew him in person or from afar, the fortitude to bear the loss of this rare human being! Rest in peace, Oga Patapata! 

~ Sandra Frempong

Posted by Joshua Olayiwola Oyekan on May 17, 2021

Even though I did not have the privilege of meeting and knowing this man of God when he was on earth with all of us, I hereby put together the following prayers of comfort for a his wife, children, and relations that he left behind.

Prayer in Time of Bereavement HD - YouTube
Uplifting Christian Grief Songs - YouTube
Prayer for Strength when Grieving - Comfort in Loss - YouTube
Prayer For Comfort And Strength When Grieving - YouTube
Prayer For Grief and Loss | Prayers For Strength ... - YouTube
"Prayers for Those Who Grieve
 Sweet Hour Of Prayer – YouTube

Prof. Joshua Olayiwola Oyekan
5-17-21

I did not personally know Dr. Nowamagbe Omoigui, yet I knew him. As a student of global military history, I found Dr. Omoigui's profound knowledge and insights about contemporary Nigerian politico-military history very educating and intellectually stimulating. It was a joy to 'pick his brain' virtually. That he was a Physician who powered his way through modern history by dint of personal development and intellectual interest was most inspiring for me. Dr. Omoigui's passing was shocking and heart-rending to me. A griot left us indeed. The knowledge he shared with us remains a lasting legacy. May his memory be a blessing to us all.
The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Amen.

The soul of the righteous are in the hands of God and no evil shall ever touch them. 

Dear Moira,

On behalf of my family and I, I offer my sincerest condolences to you and the kids on the passing of Dr. Nowa. May God grant him eternal rest and may perpetual light shine upon him.  May God give you and your family the strength to bear this great loss. He will forever live in your hearts. Amen

A farewell tribute to a friend and brother- Dr. Austin Nowamagbe Omoigui.

By Rosaline Osemetiti Okosun Ph.D; JP

I write this tribute with great sadness over the unimaginable loss of my dear friend and brother, Dr. Austin Nowamagbe Omoigui. 
It has taken me weeks to come to terms that my friend Nowa is no longer here on earth with us.

Nowa, it’s been a privilege to have known you.
We were family, not just friends. You were a very good friend that anyone would want to have in life. You were very intelligent, and knowledgeable in many areas. We could discuss anything and everything. You taught me a lot, especially about our culture.

Nowa was kind, humble, loving and real. He was bold and fearless. He was a wonderful father to his six children. He also loved his wife, Moira. He loved his parents and siblings as well. When his mum passed few years ago, he said to me that “half of him had gone”.

Nowa, I thought you were getting better when we last exchanged messages. You assured me that you will not give up. You told me you were saying your prayers and especially your rosary on a daily basis. I encouraged you to continue to say your prayers.
Behold, death came calling and snatched you away from us. Death, Why? Why? Why?
Who am I to question God. He knows the best.

Farewell my dear friend and brother, Nowa. You left without saying good bye. I guess God wanted you to come home and rest. To rest in heaven where there is no pain, sorrow and suffering.We lost you, but heaven gained you.

Nowa, I will surely miss you so much.
May our Mother Mary continue to intercede on your behalf.
Eternal rest grant unto Nowa O Lord, and let Perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God Rest In Peace, Amen. 
Good night my dear friend. 

Brother Nowa,
it’s hard to come to terms with the realization that you are no longer physically here on Earth. I can hear your usual reply of “I dey full ground” whenever I ask, “Brother, how now?”
Your presence was larger than life, you stood out wherever you were. That you impacted so many lives is no longer a secret. That you were a hard worker, and dedicated to your profession, was well known. Your colleagues and hospital staff who worked with you, all attest to this. That you were passionate about Politics, World History, Military intelligence & Warfare, the Arts, Culture, especially Bini/Edo African Culture is also well know. Your interests were vast and varied and you could converse effortlessly and easily with the most learned of persons, as well as a kindergartener. Your discussions were always witty, intelligent, educative and passionate., and I was often amazed at the fact that you were utterly impervious to the fact that most of your rapt audience felt they were in the presence of a genius. You took the many compliments that came your way with humility and sometimes, even embarrassment. I remember meeting an older gentleman a few years ago, and on hearing my accent, he asked where I was from. When I told him “Nigeria”, he excitedly asked me, “Do you know Dr Omoigui?” When I said “Yes”, he remarked very solemnly, “Dr Omoigui saved my life, when I had a heart attack, he is the reason I’m alive today” Such was the type of impact you had on a lot of people.
The most remarkable virtue I saw in you, was your selfless love for God, and your Family! You lived for your wife and children. You would sacrifice much for them. You loved your parents, and your siblings. You always wanted to make them happy. I remember how sad you felt after your dear Mother died a few years ago. I had to tell you about the conversation I had with her during her last visit to Columbia, how worried she was for you, and how she so wanted you to feel better, quickly and you promised you will.
I am glad that you were a Christian. You had a personal relationship with God. You did your best and were a good Catholic. You attended Mass, as often as you could and up until the Covid regulations made it impossible for you to, and you spoke often of your Faith in God.
Rest In Peace, Brother Nowa. 
I pray that The Lord receives your soul and welcomes you into His Heavenly Kingdom with the Saints triumphant, Amen.
Ngozi Ezeihuaku

Nowamagbe Austin Omoigui (1959 – 2021)
MD, MPH, FACC.

THE TRAILBLAZER.

By Abraham Ariyo, M.D.

Nowa Omoigui shattered the glass ceiling in Cardiology by being the first Nigerian immigrant to serve as Chief of Cardiology of a major University Medical School in the United States – The University of South Carolina, Columbia. His achievements ushered in a new era of possibilities. He inspired new generations of young Africans and African Americans in Cardiology worldwide. He chartered a new course, allowing us to redefine our future. By his example, we know that there are no limits in pursuing our dreams in the field of Cardiology. We celebrate his life this week.

Nowamagbe Omoigui was born on March 28, 1959 and passed on April 18th, 2021. He was a precocious talent who set records everywhere he went. He graduated from high school at age 15, from Federal Government College, Warri in Nigeria. He graduated with distinction and set a record as the first in the history of the school (and one of the first in West African History) to obtain a Grade A1 in Fine Arts. In 1975, after a year of pre-Med at King’s College in Lagos, he gained admission to study Medicine at the Nigeria’s premier Medical School, The College of Medicine, University of Ibadan. In 1981, he graduated at the top of his Medical School Class with distinction and delivered the valedictory speech. After Internship, he spent a mandatory year of service at the Brigade of Guards where he set new records by coordinating an air, sea and land Military disaster drill, and received a National Award from the Nigerian President Shehu Shagari in 1983.

In the U.S., he did Medicine Residency at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, NY and served as Chief Resident at Cook County Hospital in Chicago. He obtained a Masters degree in Public Health from the University of Illinois. He trained in Cardiology at Stanford University and in Interventional Cardiology at the Cleveland Clinic (America’s best heart center). Nowa continued his tradition of collecting awards and setting records in the U.S. He was awarded the Timothy Beckett (1992) and Hewlett Packard (1993) Awards, and Awards for excellence as a post-doctoral fellow in Cardiovascular Disease. He set the all-time record among clinical fellows at the Cleveland Clinic for the highest number of abstracts submitted and presented (as first author) at a single National meeting (American Heart Association 1994). Importantly, he set a new record when he became the first Nigerian (African) immigrant to be Chief of Cardiology at a US University Medical School in December 1994 at the age of 35. Perhaps the youngest to do so.

At the 1995 American College of Cardiology Conference, while I was presenting as a young Cardiology Fellow from Boston and my compatriot, Dr. Akinboboye was presenting as a young Instructor from Columbia University, we were both delighted to see Nowa on the podium as a Guest Faculty of the American College of Cardiology. It definitely opened our horizons. If Nowa could be up there, we too could. This trend has continued till today with young immigrants and young African Americans in leadership positions in every aspect of Cardiology in the United States.

In 1996, when I visited him at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, he was the Chief of Cardiology, the Program Director of Cardiology Fellowship, Director at the VAMC, and the Chairman of the Governing Board of Regents. The night of my visit, during the war of the Desert Storm, Nowa logged into the high-level, War-Room that was full of Military Generals, discussing Tactics and Strategies of military warfare. On Saturdays, he would email me his weekly political write-up for me to proofread, which I would send back to him on Sundays. That opinion would be published in his weekly column in the popular Nigerian newspaper, The Guardian.

Before the advent of internet, Nowa would give you facts and figures about events. By the time you checked, he would be correct about the date, time, place and everything else. His brain was like a walking encyclopedia. He was a preeminent cardiologist, an academic researcher, a prolific writer, a masterful orator, a Military and Nigerian historian, and a genius. Despite his record-setting achievements and his intellectual prowess, he was always humble, easily approachable, always ready to help the younger physicians. When he got comfortable with you, he would crack jokes upon jokes, and you would think he was a comedian. I miss his laugh.

While on this earth, Nowa ensured that his name was engraved in record books for the ages, we pray that God engraves his name among His greatest servants and grant him glory and eternal life in Heaven.

Nowa, we celebrate you today. Rest in Peace.

Abraham A. Ariyo, MD, MPH, FACC.
Director, HeartMasters Cardiology
Interventional Cardiologist,
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Texas.

I am saddened at your passing. You were a kind hearted person. May the good lord comfort your loved ones
Doris Nnadiri

Nowa, it’s hard to speak of you now without great emotion; even though our last communication was October2018 in an email exchange where you were a tad vague about what was happening to you.
You were more concerned & expressed much pain regarding your mums passing...
You acknowledged again that she was an outstanding mother and hoped she understood your absence at the relevant time. I responded - of course she did.
I’m unable to say more at this time ...others have said it all.
Only to add, the testimony of Mrs Omoigui’s amazing ability as mother and teacher shines bright in her entire family...

Rest well Nowa, till we see again...

A TRIBUTE RESOLUTION IN LOVING MEMORY OF DR. NOWAMAGBE AUSTIN OMOIGUI, MD, MPH, FACC.
We the members of the Ẹdo International Congress (EIC), want the family of Dr. Nowamagbe Austin Ọmọigui to know that our hearts are heavy with grief and sorrows as we join our Ẹdo people, our society and our whole world to say goodbye to Nowamagbe, a gallant soldier and commander of Ẹdo able-bodied men and women, an indefatigable intellectual of a genius, the first among equals. This was a character that which only the holy heaven could have given; a leader that needed not be elected. As in the genealogies of the Bible, it is so true that the longevity of life does not determine its fulfillment, for Enoch lived (365 yrs), much shorter than others, but he walked with God and was the only Patriarch who had no grave; for he didn’t die!
“Thy beauty O Israel is slain upon the high places, how are the mighty fallen”! (11 Samuel1:19). Thy beauty O Ẹdo is slain upon the high country, how are the mighty fallen! Tell it not in Iguiyasẹ, publish it not in the streets of Ẹvbowe, Iguagban and Iguiyasẹ; nor in the districts of Issi and Uhumwunodẹ, or Ẹdoland. O how are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle; and the weapons of war, perished!
Socrates famously said that the unconsidered life is not worth living. He meant that among other things, that a life well lived is one which has goals, and integrity, which is chosen and directed by the one who lives it, to the fullest extent possible to a human agent caught in the web of society and history. Anthonia Ọmọakhuana also remarked that: “A life of service is a life well and greatly lived”. Heaven and earth have marked the life of Nowamagbe, as a life well lived.
WHEREAS, Nowamagbe was born into the background of the enlightened family of intellectuals: Surveyor Daniel Aiyanyọ Ọmọigui, late Barr. Mrs. Grace Ọnaiwu Ọmọigui, late Ọdiọnwere Egbọn Ọmọigui, late Auditor Ọmọigiade Egbọn, late Mr. Nọma Ọsẹmwota, alias Tommy Weather; late Mr. Nẹhizẹna Ọsẹmwota, alias ‘Rain’; all being the Eseserese of the Egite family Dynasty in Ẹvbowe, Iguangban and Iguiyasẹ; and subsequently Nowamagbe led his sibling brothers and sisters in the same intellectual pursuits, in institutions wherever found.
WHEREAS, Dr. Nowamagbe Ọmọigui chose and obtained quality education in college of Medicine, graduating with distinction, and received national award during internship; with other post graduate studies and specialization in Public Health and Cardiology; Nowamagbe became both a chief and Director of Cardiology programs in several clinics and medical centers, ending in the title of Fellow of the American College of Cardiologists, (FACC).
WHEREAS, Nowamagbe Ọmọigui, the gifted Artist obtained a Grade A1in Fine Arts in High School Diploma examinations, also proved his intellectual prowess in research and writing, and became a world-renowned military historian who oftentimes debunked other scholars in presentations, with indisputable facts and figures. His versatility had superior contributions to every discourse on hand.
WHEREAS, Dr. Nowa Ọmọigui in Ẹdo International Congress fellowship, was always reliable for candid opinion and suggestions on critical matters regarding visions of Ẹdo nation and its fulfillment; he conclusively set our minds at peace with final counsel for empowerment towards success.
WHEREAS, the passing of Dr. Nowamagbe Ọmọigui imposes two hidden fears upon the organization and existence of Ẹdo International Congress, namely; his dignified leadership so apparently lost, and the management of the unavoidable resultant effects of the impending disintegration of the Nigeria State. Now that you have departed from your much needed leadership role, with courage we shall face the days and task ahead, to win and never to lose.
E Nigeria gha ghi kharha kua; Edọmwandẹ Ẹvbo na ghi gha tie ọghọẹ; Ẹdo hia gha ghi gbaaaaa; Ẹdo hia gha ghi gbaaaaaaaaaaa! Eeeeeeeeeeeee! Ẹdo hia gha ghi gba vb’ugheeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! E Nowa i ghi de nọ do wan ẹrinmwin-o Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Ẹdo International Congress in humble submission to God Almighty, and in full salutation to Comrade Dr. Nowa Ọmọigui for the services he provided for Edo and the larger human society, that we commend the body of our brother to God our Creator, for eternal life in His presence, amen. May his vibrant soul, rest in perfect peace with God, amen. A copy of this TRIBUTE RESOLUTION shall be given to the family, and another copy shall be kept in the archives of the Ẹdo International Congress (EIC).
Humbly submitted this 14th Day of May, in the Year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Twenty One, AD.

SIGNED:  
Bishop Dr. Stephen Aghahowa   Mr. Robert Igbinọvia
President Vice President
      Dr. Ẹdo Aikhiọnbare
     Assistant Secretary

 



               

Nowa was a great guy in every sphere of life. He was my nephew, my schoolmate in FGC Warri, a professional colleague, and a friend. He was a gentleman and a pleasure to be around, a powerhouse of talents. While he excelled in cardiology, he could have done excellently in other vocations as an artist, writer, engineer, politician, or even as a comedian or calligrapher. He broke the myth of the near impossible grade of A1 in fine arts, while also scoring the highest grade in physics, math, and Chemistry. He would often crack up his classmates by letting them know he had the longest name in the school as he spelt it in its entirety on the black board. He was enthusiastic in encouraging and supporting other colleagues to succeed in their professions. He saved many lives in the field of medicine. He loved his family. He was full of life and you were never bored in his company. He did not nurture bitterness against anyone, a characteristic that saw him through the most challenging moments of his life. May we all continue to carry this kind of love in our hearts. I will miss him so much. We love him, but God loves him most.

Even though you are gone away,
Your love will always be here to stay.
You touched our hearts with so many things.

God knew you were the one to save,
He took you home to get some rest,
Even though we loved you best.

Our hearts are filled with so much pain,
God loved you more, there was no shame.

At this time we must let go.
Your memories we will keep a flow.
Rest our dear cousin Nowa with peace of mind,
Your memories will live on through.


               Rest In Peace Nowa
          Your cousin Mrs Meg Ogbeide Uzzi

This tribute is on behalf of your friends and colleagues from ANPA CAROLINAS, USA.
I met NOWA THE GREAT when I joined ANPA Carolinas in 1999 at one of our meetings.The uniqueness of his contributions made me very curious about him and everything I heard made me more curious. We became closer when I became ANPA CAROLINAS Chairman. He was present at our meetings both local and national events with his children and when I asked him why so many he replied by saying they were the gifts from God.He came in with at least four young ladies at at a time. Another unique thing about this Genius is his ability to listen attentively when you disagree with him He will then dismantle your reasoning for disagreements one after the other.One of those we never finished when I called one of his historical writings alternative facts. He defended himself like a Genius he was, although we never agreed on this one. He continued to come for ANPA activities even when he was still recovering from his original illness.
NOWA THE GREAT would be greatly missed for his brilliance, intellectual conversation , calming exterior demeanor and commanding academic presence wherever he was.
Adieu Nowa . Go well and Rest In Peace.

DR. NOWAMAGBE AUSTIN OMOIGUI
a.k.a. NOWA THE GREAT!

His genius showed early
With SUNSET
The poem he wrote at college
That showed an old soul in a young body
A stamp of the Omoigui genes
As Ifueko Omoigui
A younger sibling would later show
The Omoiguis is a family steeped in intellectual prowess
And humility

Senior Nowa graduated from college with Distinction
And onto a sterling career in medicine
He sat atop the profession
As a renowned cardiologist
So I wonder how he got the time
To write so many volumes
And become the Shakespeare of military history
He ensured that his talent for writing
Also made an invaluable impact

His humanity and selfless giving
Is exemplified by the following encounter:
We had not seen since 1974
When Nowa left college
But I had cause to contact him in 2018
To recommend a cardiologist for a friend of mine in Nigeria
After so many years of separation
Senior Nowa was ecstatic to hear my voice
He not only recommended 2 cardiologists
He called for months to enquire
About the health of my friend
And catch up on old times
That’s exemplary for a very busy and renowned cardiologist
I marveled and wondered
Where he got the time
For all his many and varied engagements

The world has lost one of its finest minds
And we mourn deep into our bones
A rare gem who conquered life playful as a child
He was a simple and ordinary man
Who lived an extraordinary life
A full life made whole
By his affinity to the spirit that binds us all
For he was entwined
And bound to us by love
And so shall it be for ever
May the Lord rest his precious soul in His bosom
And strengthen his family and friends
With fortitude to bear this huge loss.

Dr. Gbadamosi Yakubu
School Captain
Fed. Govt. College, Warri.
1978-79

Nowamagbe, my dear cousin. My mind keeps going back to our childhood when we had fun times together. Your Mother of blessed memory always referred to me as her son. My Father of blessed memory was particularly fond of you. Your departure came to me as a rude shock. Please continue to rest in peace. Amen.

TRIBUTE TO NOWAMAGBE AUSTIN OMOIGUI, MD, FACC
By Chief Oseni Elamah, mni

Like the 19th Century American poet, Albert Pike once said, “what we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal”.

These words amply capture the feeling of the life and times of our brother, Dr. Nowamabge Austin Omoigui (NOA).

Having met him in 2017 during the final burial activities for mama, where we had extensive discussions on a wide variety of subjects, I was amazed at the depth of his knowledge, his intelligence and grasp of both local and international issues. His thorough analysis of historical and contemporary topics left me in awe and this impression has remained indelible in my mind till date.

He was a selfless, humble, and humane personality, an excellent networker and manager of people, and a compassionate loving and caring son, brother, husband, and father who loved life, and who lived life to the fullest. His role in ensuring that mama and papa became citizens of the United States was just one out of the many aspects of how he showed immense care and concern for the welfare of his loved ones.

His life and times in the field of medicine as an interventionist cardiologist at Columbia, South Carolina, United States has impacted countless persons, and it is to his credit that many lives have been saved. He was passionate about the arts and had made valuable contributions to the Nigerian, American and indeed the global art community. NOA also had a rich background with the military, a background that inspired his work as a military historian and had seen him establish strong and enduring relationships with the military intelligentsia.

His transition is indeed a great loss to his family especially, and to all humanity, and we can only but make our supplications that his transcended soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Almighty God of creation.

We also pray that the entire Omoigui family is comforted in this very trying time, and we pray for courage and strength to deal with this painful loss.

May his soul rest in peace, amen.

Nowa was an inspirational leader who will be missed forever.

His knowledge and wisdom will continue to impact current and future generations.

TRIBUTE TO DR NOWA OMOIGUI

I first met Nowa in 1979 in Ibadan, then, I was a young 2Lt, and he a student at University College Hospital (UCH). It was quite easy for Nowa to get acquainted with strangers because of the confidence and intelligence he exhibited with deep knowledge of issues even in his young age. We got on very well until his sojourn in the United States, but we still maintained the link. He was always a material source to me and some other military officers of my generation. I benefited severally from Nowa's intellect during my service in ECOMOG in the late 90s as well as in my Staff and National War College courses respectively.
I will never forget Nowa's kindness to my wife and I when we had our first baby in April 1983. As a Youth Corper serving with the then Guards Brigade, Obalende, Lagos, Dr Nowa came to rejoice with us holding a pack of 4 cans of S26 Baby Food, then the most expensive in Nigeria selling for Three Naira Fifty Kobo (N3.50k). Unfortunately, my baby was not comfortable with S26 stuff, but settled for SMA, sold for Three Naira (N3=). 
Nowa indeed, excelled in other academic fields beyond his core area of medicine. He was a very good military historian, narrating historical events as if he was there himself. I admired his academic prowess as a young man and was encouraged by his humility.
Through Nowa, I got very familiar with the Omoigui family, particularly Mummy of blessed memory and Daddy, Pa Daniel Omoigui.

Rest In Peace, Nowa, till we meet in Paradise to part no more. I pray that God Almighty will comfort and strengthen your immediate family, siblings, Daddy and friends you left behind to mourn you.

Brig Gen Mike Ndubisi (Rtd)

Nowa:
You remain a great friend even in death. While you lived, your wits and clarity of thought was a gift to all who knew you. From history, literature, sports, politics, and risk taking, we travelled but remained faithful to cardiovascular medicine.
An exceptional and gifted soul you are in life and in death.
Adieu my friend

My dear uncle Nowa, it has taken me a while to put pen to paper to write this as I still cannot believe you are gone. I recall speaking with you and you saying you were much, much better. You could not wait for this Pandemic to be over so you could travel home to see Dad. This was different from, “taking it one day at a time” that you often said.
I will always be grateful for the kindness you showed me. In my time of pain, you came to see me in New Jersey and welcomed me to spend some time with you and the family in Columbia. You always checked up on me; one of our last conversations was you saying you hoped I had not resorted to burning furniture to get heat, because it was so cold and people had resorted to doing so.
You were the brilliant doctor who did great things and did not think much of it. I was privileged to attend a 50th wedding anniversary celebration with you and the family and when encomiums were poured on you for saving the life of the gentleman, you simply said you were just doing your job. You were that down to earth. I will miss hearing you ask, “CY, how body?” I will miss your advice and counsel. Our people say, “Eki ma do do vba’agbon”. Indeed, we are all sojourners here on earth. You have done your part and have gone home. We would have liked to have you here a little longer but I take comfort in the word of God which says, “Blessed are they who die in the Lord, they rest from their labors and their good deeds go with them.” (Rev 14:13). You are at rest now. Sleep on beloved uncle, until we meet to part no more.

-Cynthia Enahoro Amanyeiwe

NOWAMAGBE : A TRIBUTE

He was indeed one of our best. Even in our childhood days he stood out. He belonged to an outstanding class set at the Federal Government College, Warri. Nowa had guts. He was one of the youngest in the 1970/74 class set, which he joined by default at the institution, and was clearly a class act.

His brilliance was enveloping and for his age, it was breathtaking. Just as he came into FGCW in 1969 at age 9, and had to repeat the class one, not because he failed, but that he was too young, too pint-sized, to fit into the next class, so too, he had to come to King’s College, Lagos, as a holding bay, for a year, in the lower sixth form, because the University College Hospital, UCH, said he was too young for his admission into the University to read medicine.
After a year at King’s College, he was done and ready to go on to the same UCH where he distinguished himself in the medical school. He later grew to become a world renowned cardiologist 

But it would be demeaning to box Nowa into a medical prodigy. That would be very unfair and incorrect. Nowa’s intellect found major expression in literature. He wrote intellectually and intelligently about different aspects of life. He became famous and an authority in military history.

In all of these Nowa was not what you would call a bookworm. He participated in school sports and all other social engagements and was fun to be with. Very witty, boisterous and humorous.
He once told a Prefect who wanted to punish him for engaging in overnight reading during the West Africa School Certificate, aka “Awoko” or “Ghosting”: “We were told in class to strictly follow the WAEC Syllabus and I have checked this syllabus over and over again and nowhere was sleep mentioned. Since WAEC didn’t recognize sleep, why would I”. Vintage Nowa.
Of course we were punished despite Nowa’s logic.

Nowa goes home as all mortals do. He did play his role here. He did it well and goes down in history as Nowa who conquered and left a path.

THE ALMIGHTY SHALL FORGIVE YOUR SINS, NOWA AND ADMIT YOU INTO PARADISE

written by MALLAM OKWECHIME
& read by
CHUKWUMA KATCHY PhD CP RTD
on behalf of
*FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COLLEGE WARRI 1970-74/76 CLASS SET.*

The language we use to express our sentiments in times like this is neither a language of certainty nor a language of doubt, but rather, a language of hope. As Christians, we believe that those who sleep in Christ, even though they die, will rise again. Dear Dr. Nowamagbe Austin Omoigui, you were a light in your family, an outstanding model and paradigm. You were an inspiration to many and conquered many grounds through your excellent achievements and successes. You lived a selfless life in service to God and humanity. Your legacy is boundless and you will forever remain in our hearts. We love you but God loves you more* May the Lord be with you until we meet to part no more; May God have mercy on your soul and grant you forgiveness of sins;
May perpetual light continue to shine on upon and may your soul rest in peace eternally. AMEN

THE FAMILY OF S.E. AMUNE

Uncle Nowa as I call you.
Like a SHOOTING STAR, you came to this world and achieved greatness in such a short time. Now you hav gone back to your Creator.
I will always remember your goodness to humanity and my husband was a beneficiary of such kindness.
Your love for Edo Culture I greatly admired.
Even in death, many of us will continue to talk about the proud son from Benin.
Many will miss you but my prayer is that the good Lord will grant you eternal rest and comfort the whole family.
Although gone, your spirit and your good deeds live on.
ADIEU Uncle Nowa
Mrs P.U Erhahon
FOR THE ERHAHON FAMILY

DR. NOWAMAGBE AUSTIN OMOIGUI WAS ONE OF THE BEST CARDIO-VASCULAR SURGEONS THE WORLD COULD BOAST OF.

HE KNEW ME FIRST BECAUSE OF MY FIRST BOOK, "EDO PROVERBS & FIGURES OF SPEECH" HE WAS A PERSONAL FRIEND & ALSO ONE OF US AT THE INSTITUTE FOR BENIN STUDIES. THE FIRST LAPTOP THE INSTITUTE EVER HAD WAS DONATED BY HIM. HE WAS A GREAT FINANCIAL SUPPORTER.

HE SHOWED EMPATHY WHEN IN EARLY 2000 I HAD THE ACCIDENT THAT ALMOST PARALYSED ME. HE UPHELD ME IN HIS PRAYERS & ALWAYS ASKING AFTER ME.

IN DECEMBER 2002, HE WAS OUR GUEST LECTURER AT THE JACOB U. EGHAREVBA MEMORIAL LECTURE ORGANISED US, INSTITUTE FOR BENIN STUDIES IN BENIN CITY AND THE TITLE OF HIS LECTURE WAS " THE MIDWEST REFEREDUM".

NOWA WAS A GOOD- SPIRITED NIGERIAN, ONE OF THE FEW GOOD-SPIRITED BENINS I SINCERELY KNOW OF. A GREAT PHILANTHROPIST HE WAS.
HE ONCE SPONSORED MY TRIP TO LANCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM IN DECEMBER, 2003 FOR A PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE.

HE TOOK ILL MYSTERIOUSLY FEW YEARS AGO & I WAS CHECKING ON HIM FROM TIME TO TIME AS I OWED HIM THE DUTY OF UPHOLDING HIM IN MY PRAYERS.

THIS IS A MONUMENTAL LOSS, I MUST CONFESS
BRODA NOWA, REST IN THE BOSOM OF THE LORD, YOUR MAKER. GOODNIGHT GENUINE FRIEND.

I BID YOU FAREWELL
MY FAMILY BID YOU FAREWELL
INSTITUTE FOR BENIN STUDIES BID YOU FAREWELL.
U. I. A. A. EDO STATE BRANCH TO WHICH YOUR FATHER BELONGS BID YOU FAREWELL
THE ENTIRE ẸDO NATION BID YOU FAREWELL
ỌKHIONWIẸ ỌMỌ NE Ọ RẸN UYI.
Princess (Mrs.) Ivie Betty Uwa-Igbinoba
Zonal Director, Edo Zonal Office
National Council for Arts and Culture,
Co-ordinator, Institute for Benin Studies & Welfare Officer, University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Edo State Branch.

Nowa was my college son at the Federal Government College Warri.I knew he was destined for greatness. I just didn’t know how great and he never mentioned how great he had become when I spent a day with him in Columbia, South Carolina in 1998/1999. I recall then telling him that I was disappointed in him that he turned out to be a card dealer. “Senior Lacikoya” he laughed, “you can never stop joking. It is cardiologist, not card dealer.” Although diminutive in stature when his mum first asked me to keep an eye on him during a visit to his house off Eric Moore Surulere in 1970 he had become an ‘Iroko’ at his passing. Nowa. may your soul Rest In Peace.

Who would have thought that in my lifetime, I'd be privileged to have known someone as great as Dr Nowa. One of the most impactful one year of my life( July 2019 - July 2020) was caring for him.
He became a father, a friend, a mentor and as I always called him "my free prescription".
I told him I'd never fall sick again caring for an Interventional Cardiologist..
He would laugh so loud.
As much as I loved caring for Dr Nowa, hearing him talk was always the best part of my day. We talked about everything.
I was always amazed at every word or phrase he used, so much that I'd take notes, repeatedly ask him to pause and when I couldn't keep up, I brought a laptop. He laughed so hard at the sight of it.
"Abeg o, madam " he'd say. He made history so appealing. Every topic we covered was always so exciting.
Despite being so gifted and intellectually versatile, he remained humble. Kai! Too humble.
His sense of humor was out of this world. He cracked the best jokes so effortlessly.

Oh! I miss you so much Dr Nowa. I love you so dearly.
You were so good to me and my son. You were loving, caring and understanding.

Oh! Your death hurts so much. Too much Dr Nowa. To even think that I thought about you so much on Saturday the 17th that I had to call Aunt Ifueko to know if you were ok, unbeknownst to me you'd be gone the next day. 

Hmmmm.........

Thank you for all you taught me. I'll hold onto everything I wrote down, the voicenotes, but most especially the video of you eating your favorite food ( Owo soup ). I'll find closure with your last text to me on August 1st 2020 :

Don't despair
You will not be forgotten
Regards
NAO

Thank you Dr Nowa. You need not worry again.
It is well with your soul.
Now, have that rest!

*NOWAMAGBE : A TRIBUTE *

He was indeed one of our best. Even in our childhood days he stood out. He belonged to an outstanding class set at the Federal Government College, Warri. Nowa had guts. He was one of the youngest in the 1970/74 class set, which he joined by default at the institution, and was clearly a class act.

His brilliance was enveloping and for his age, it was breathtaking. Just as he came into FGCW in 1969 at age 9, and had to repeat the class one, not because he failed, but that he was too young, too pint-sized, to fit into the next class, so too, he had to come to King’s College, Lagos, as a holding bay, for a year, in the lower sixth form, because the University College Hospital, UCH, said he was too young for his admission into the University to read medicine.
After a year at King’s College, he was done and ready to go on to the same UCH where he distinguished himself in the medical school. He later grew to become a world renowned cardiologist  

But it would be demeaning to box Nowa into a medical prodigy. That would be very unfair and incorrect. Nowa’s intellect found major expression in literature. He wrote intellectually and intelligently about different aspects of life. He became famous and an authority in military history.

In all of these Nowa was not what you would call a bookworm. He participated in school sports and all other social engagements and was fun to be with. Very witty, boisterous and humorous.
He once told a prefect who wanted to punish him for engaging in overnight reading during the West Africa School Certificate, aka “Awoko” or “Ghosting” : “We were told in class to strictly follow the WAEC Syllabus and I have checked this syllabus over and over again and nowhere was sleep mentioned. Since WAEC didn’t recognise sleep, why would I”. Vintage Nowa
Of course we were punished despite Nowa’s logic. .

Nowa goes home as all mortals do. He did play his role here. He did it well and goes down in history as Nowa who conquered and left a path.

THE ALMIGHTY SHALL FORGIVE YOUR SINS, NOWA AND ADMIT YOU INTO PARADISE


*FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COLLEGE WARRI 1970-74/76 CLASS SET.*

I remember my late mother Florence Omo-Osagie always talking about your achievements with pride! So did my late dad- Bolaji Omo-Osagie as they were well proud of you!
May you rest in peace!
Vera Osarume Boyo
(nee Omo-Osagie)

On behalf of the Igunbor family, although shocked and saddened by the news, We are very grateful to God for blessings our family and the world with such an amazing human being. What a legacy. Wow!!!

We continue to pray for the immediate family and entire family at large.

My Dear Big Brother Nowa,

I am still trying to process the shocking news of your passing. Your death has shown again that tomorrow is not promised to anyone. One wonders why good people always leave us too soon. You achieved in your lifetime, what people many times over would not be able to achieve.  Of course, many of us knew you, as a renowned and brilliant Cardiologist, Writer, Military Historian and Family Man. I will add Influencer to this list, as you built a reputation, based on your intellect, knowledge and expertise in your career as a Cardiologist, Writer and Military Historian and as a result, influenced and impacted people from different works of life. But it was your humility, warmness, kindness, loyalty, generosity and approachability, in combination with your accomplishments that made you truly unique.

You had that Midas touch, and everything you touched, as they say, turned into gold. Not many people knew what a brilliant Artist you were as well. If you had decided to make a career in the Arts, I know for a fact, you would have been equally successful and famous. I recall as a kid, the portrait you painted of my dad, while you were still at Federal Government College, Warri. My dad was so proud of that portrait, because it was almost an exact replica of the picture you used. 

Thank you for your kindness, in treating my mom as your Mother, and for being a big brother to Adesomo, Andrew, Cynthia and myself. You were never far away, and always available to offer advice, lift us up in our time of sorrow and despair, as well as celebrate with us during good times. The fact that you were physically present to celebrate our Mother’s 80th birthday with all of us, just a few years ago, showed us your love and affection for her. I will miss our phone conversations. I recall our compelling and informative conversations on politics, military history, Edo culture, and our individual experiences at Federal Government College, Warri, which we both attended at different periods. 

You are a true icon and your shoes will be difficult to fill. I pray that the good Lord grant Moira, the children, Daddy, Sota, Ifueko, Eghosa, and Nosa the fortitude and strength to cope with your loss. I am a better individual today for knowing you and having you in my life. My Brother, sleep very well! Otenwen lowie, esenwense! Rest in Perfect Peace!

I KNEW HIM BEFORE HE KNEW ME! As a disability attorney, I had to have many encounters with doctors.  Their opinion meant a lot to my clients. Dr. Omoigui was that rare human that renewed hope that someone cared. I had sent a request for a statement and records, and he actually called me himself to see what was needed. He urged his staff to moved expediently to get records and expressed concern for his patient. We met again many years later, and I don't believe he remembered me. I was just one of many people to whom he had been kind and caring. When we met again on a more close-up level, he was still the rare human I had met years ago. His tall and majestic stature spoke analogously of his integrity, his huge personality, the love for his family, and the fighter inside of him. My office staff and I will miss him dearly.

I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Omoigui the best Cardiologist I have ever known. The kindest man. Always smiling , laughing and generous to all. A hard worker never leaving a stone unturned. He will be missed by all. Prayers for the family. He was loved by all .

I had the honor and pleasure to work with Nowa as his assistant when he first came to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. He was one of the most genuine souls I've known and a brilliant and king human being. He could warm a room with his infectious smile and "Hey Chief" greeting to all. He will be missed by many. My love and prayers to Moira and all his family. 

Dr. Nowamagbe Omoigui of Blessed Memory.
The close relationship between the Daniel Omoigui and the Daniel Enahoro families goes as far back as the mid-fifties, before Nowa was born. Nowa was a big brother to his siblings and my children as well. You can imagine the shock, my children and I felt, when we heard of Nowa's passing. Nowa, our dear son and brother left us too soon. A brilliant and kind Cardiologist, Nowa was never too busy to give a listening ear to any one in need of his expertise. When we had health concerns, he was always there for us. I had the privilege of visiting his Clinic for a general checkup. I tried reaching Nowa via text, on his 62nd birthday anniversary on March 28, 2021, but did not hear from him, and then I received the sad news.

Adieu NOWA ! Sleep well!!
Auntie Christie Enahoro.

I'm deeply saddened by Nowa's passing. He was 3 years ahead of me at FGC Warri and was a key part of the 1974 set that made the best WASC result in West Africa; with an Aggregate 08 Distinction, including an A1 in Fine Art. His weekly drawings at The Press Club were an inspiration and his eloquence unparalleled. His family and us have just experienced a great loss. May The Lord comfort his Dad; siblings, wife & children. And may God rest his kind soul in perfect peace. In Jesus' Name. Amen

On my behalf and the Orobator and Amadasun families, I offer condolences on Nowa’s transition. As my senior at UCH, Nowa was an epitome of brilliance and tireless curiosity. He had a way of making complex undertakings effortless and in so doing helped to regularly convey inspiration on the art of the possible. Nowa, you are cherished and you will be missed.

To Moira, the kids, young and grown, and the entire family, we pray for the Lord to continue to grant you His Grace, His Lovingkindness and the strength to bear this loss.

Rest In Peace Nowa.
Amen.

**In Memory of Nowamagbe Austin Omoigui*

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone. Apart of us went with you, the day God took you home. If tears could build a stairway, and heartache make a lane, we'd walk out way to heaven, and bring you back again. In life we love you dearly, in death we love you still, in our hearts you hold a place no one could ever fill.

Your presence will miss
Your memories we treasure
Loving you always
Forgetting you never.

*BRO ELAHO PETER, MDM*