Family to launch foundation in honour of Ifunanya Nwangene

The family of late singer Ifunanya Nwangene, who died from complications arising from a snakebite, has called for the availability of life-saving antivenom in hospitals across Nigeria.

The appeal was made at a musical evening organised by the Rotary Club of Abuja Renaissance in collaboration with the British Council in Abuja to commemorate what would have been the singer’s 27th birthday.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs Nnenna Ani Okwuobasi called for increased awareness, advocacy and collective action to ensure that access to life-saving treatment does not depend on chance.

She expressed hope that concerted efforts would spare other families the pain they continue to experience following Ifunanya’s death.

Okwuobasi also disclosed that the family had concluded plans to establish the Nanya Music Foundation in her memory. The foundation will honour the late singer’s passion for music by creating opportunities for young and aspiring musicians to develop their talents.

She added that the family hoped Ifunanya’s story would inspire meaningful conversations and initiatives on snakebite awareness, prevention and timely access to life-saving treatment.

The President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Renaissance, Rotarian Pat Ofik, paid tribute to the late singer, recalling her contributions to the early discussions and vision that led to the formation of the club.

She described Ifunanya as a gifted and passionate young woman whose warmth, talent and love for music touched lives and brought joy to many.

Also speaking, the British Council’s Programmes Director, Chikodi Onyeamerela, recalled that Ifunanya had performed at several events organised by the Council and would have been invited to participate in its end-of-year activities, as she had done the previous year.

He particularly recalled her performance of the national anthems at an event held last year to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III.

Onyeamerela said her death represented a significant loss to the Council and the wider community that had come to appreciate her musical talent.

The event was attended by Ifunanya’s parents, Mr and Mrs Christopher Nwangene, as well as Rotary Past District Governors Goddy Nnadi and Victor Onukwugha, members of the Rotary community and friends who gathered to celebrate her life.

The evening featured performances by Abuja-based creative talents, including Louisa, Pat the Singing Bird, Victoria, Matt de Baritone, Pascal de Tenor, Regal Bel, Zitu Benafa and Anaeto Nwannebuife.

The Great Voices Ensemble and the Ammemuso Choir also delivered group performances.

Ifunanya was remembered for her ability to connect with people, uplift spirits and create moments of joy through music. Her talent, warmth and passion left an enduring impression on those who encountered her.

The Nanya Music Foundation is scheduled to be officially unveiled on February 14, 2027, to coincide with the first anniversary of her burial.

Through the foundation, the family hopes to preserve her musical legacy, create opportunities for young talents and promote greater awareness of snakebite prevention and access to life-saving treatment.

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