Chief Chris Asoluka PhD, Renowned Maritime, Development, & Public Policy Strategist Dies At 70
Chief Chris Asoluka PhD fondly referred to as Okwuruoha has died. A statement signed by his first son, Jamachi Chris-Asoluka on Saturday, May 10, 2025
confirmed the sad event took place on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Maritime TV Africa gathered he passed on in his hometown, Ihiagwa, Owerri, Imo State.
It reads:
With deep sorrow but grateful hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, in-law, friend, and patriarch, Dr. Chris Asoluka (Okwuruoha).
Surrounded by love and held in grace, Daddy transitioned from this world just before midnight on Friday May 9th 2025 with the calm dignity that defined his life. A man of unwavering principles, strength, generosity, rare intellect, and profound wisdom, he lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to family, community, and country.
Though our hearts sag heavy, we take comfort in the fullness of his legacy — the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the unmatched example he set. He was our anchor, our counselor, our lifetime inspiration. His earthly absence is profound, but his spirit remains — in every lesson, every memory, every story told, and every life shaped by his presence.
We are thankful for the glorious gift of his life and for the grace with which he completed his earthly journey. As we begin this season of remembrance, thanksgiving, and celebration, we ask for your prayers, support, and love as we honour a man who meant so much to so many.
May Okwuruora’s brilliant unforgettable soul rest in perfect peace.
The family also announced dates for his final rites as follows;
- Thursday, 17th July 2025 – Service of Songs/Night of Tributes (Lagos)
- Friday, 18th July 2025 – Commendation Service (Our Saviour’s Church, Lagos)
- Wednesday, 23rd July 2025 – Service of Songs/Wake Keep (Ihiagwa, Owerri)
- Thursday, 24th July 2025 – Obsequies (Ihiagwa, Owerri)
- Sunday, 27th July 2025 – Family Thanksgiving Service (Ihiagwa, Owerri)
Dr Asoluka often described as a polymath, was a former Member of the House of Representatives and a former Commissioner for Finance, Imo State.
He was a respected development and strategy consultant (FIMC), who has played very important roles in various sectors of the Nigerian economy and politics, particularly in the area of policy development and implementation for regional, national and subnational governments in Nigeria.
The Chairman/CEO, Nipal Consulting Network, a multidisciplinary firm that has successfully handled significant assignments for clients, including the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other public, and private and non-governmental institutions within and outside Nigeria.
He was member of Governing Council of Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS) and Chairman Manpower Development Committee; and member Board of Directors, University of Ibadan Alumni Association Trust Fund (UIAATF).
A thoroughbred professional, Asoluka was Chairman, Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) and the pioneer Chairman, Nigeria Ship Finance Conference & Exhibition (NISFCOE).
Dr. Asoluka had two Bachelor’s degrees in Political Science (best graduating student) and Law (Universities of Ibadan and London.), multiple Masters degrees in International Economic Relations (University of Lagos), Shipping Economics; Trade and Finance (CASS Business School) and Ph.D. (University of Ibadan). He wrote, edited, and published many books including: Compilation of Nigerian Maritime Laws 2 vols. (2003), and Nigerian Maritime Resources Development: Issues and Challenges 2 vols. (2003).
