The family of a former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and former Thompson Reuters journalist, John Neji Chiahemen, has announced his death
The announcement is contained in a statement issued Wednesday by his family and sent to The Eagleonline.
“He fought a valiant long battle with motor neuron disease (ALS) and he was selfless to his last breath. He died peacefully in Johannesburg, South Africa surrounded by his family.
“John is survived by his wife Winnie “Chizi” Chiahemen; daughters: Ide Wise (UK) Fanen Chiahemen (Canada), and Mimi Chiahemen (US); grandson, Finley Hemen Kanyin Wise (UK); son-in-law, Ben Wise (UK).
“He is also survived by brothers and sisters, including Tom Chiahemen, Abuja-based Media & PR Consultant and Publisher, NATIONAL ACCORD Newspaper and larger family in Nigeria and Kenya.
“He will be greatly missed” the statement read.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of Chiahemen, a former Reuters Bureau Chief for Nigeria.
The president, in a statement issued Wednesday in Abuja by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, extended deep condolences to Chiahemen’s family, friends and colleagues, including everyone in the various media organizations where he worked.
The president recalled that as a veteran newsman with the reputable international news agency and Editor of Reuters Africa, Chiahemen was respected for his brilliant contributions to journalism.
He also lauded his editorial role of covering news about Africa from a business and development perspective, beyond the narrow stereotypes of disaster and poverty.
According to the President, the remarkable legacies left behind by one of Nigeria’s most accomplished journalists will continue to inspire current and upcoming members of the fourth estate of the realm.
President Buhari prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the deceased and comfort for those mourning him.
