Prof. Gregory Ibe, Gregory University Founder, Dies After Protracted Illness — Family
Late Prof Gregory Ibe
Titus Eleweke
The Royal Family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe, Okwelube I of Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, has announced the death of Professor Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR, founder and proprietor of Gregory University, Uturu.
The renowned educationist, philanthropist and entrepreneur reportedly died after a protracted illness, leaving behind six children and seven grandchildren.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Ibe Family of Amaokwe Achara, Uturu, and signed on behalf of the royal family.
The family described his death as a profound loss, not only to his immediate family but also to the academic community, the people of Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria and the numerous individuals whose lives he touched through his contributions to education, philanthropy and human development.
A distinguished academic, administrator, entrepreneur, philanthropist and educationist, Professor Ibe devoted much of his life to expanding access to education, empowering disadvantaged people and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to realise their potential.
Through Gregory University, Uturu, Skill ‘G’ Ltd., Innov8 Hub and other initiatives, the late professor translated his vision for human capital development into practical interventions aimed at improving lives, promoting enterprise and advancing innovation.
The family noted that his commitment to education and community development earned him recognition as a visionary whose influence extended beyond his immediate environment.
As founder and proprietor of Gregory University, Uturu, Professor Ibe made significant contributions to the advancement of higher education and the development of future generations.
The institution remains a major expression of his belief in the transformative power of education and its capacity to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society.
His philanthropic engagements and other ventures similarly reflected his conviction that sustainable development must create opportunities, encourage self-reliance and improve the living conditions of ordinary people.
Beyond his professional accomplishments and public engagements, however, the family remembered Professor Ibe as a loving father, cherished brother, devoted grandfather and dependable pillar of strength whose wisdom, kindness, guidance and presence enriched the lives of his relatives.
He is survived by six children and seven grandchildren, who, according to the family, will continue to cherish the memories of his love, counsel, encouragement and exemplary life.
Although his death has left an immense void in the family, the statement said his relatives drew comfort from the enduring values he instilled in them and the legacy he bequeathed to society.
The family added that his legacy would endure through his children and grandchildren, the students whose educational journeys he helped shape, the individuals he empowered, the communities he served and the institutions and initiatives he established.
It expressed confidence that the values of knowledge, opportunity, generosity and service he promoted would continue to inspire future generations.
While mourning what it described as an irreparable loss, the family expressed appreciation to friends, associates, well-wishers and members of the public who had supported them through prayers, condolence messages and other expressions of sympathy.
It appealedProf. Gregory Ibe, Gregory University Founder, Dies After Protracted Illness — Family for continued prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and for divine strength, comfort and consolation for the bereaved family as they come to terms with the loss.
The family also announced that details of the funeral arrangements would be made public in due course, while respectfully requesting that its privacy be respected during the period of mourning.
The statement concluded with an expression of gratitude to Almighty God for the life Professor Ibe lived, the impact of his service and the enduring legacy he left behind.
“May the gentle soul of Professor Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the family prayed.
