Remembering Emeka Obasi at 62: Tributes pour in for celebrated journalist, iconic publisher

Family, friends, colleagues, and admirers on Tuesday, paid heartfelt tributes to Prince Emeka Obasi, acclaimed journalist, author, public relations expert, and publisher of Business Hallmark, on what would have been his 62nd birthday.

Obasi, who passed away on March 15, 2022, at the age of 58, left behind a legacy of professionalism, mentorship, and community service that continues to inspire journalists, media professionals, and the wider public. Four years on, the memory of his life and achievements remains vivid among those who knew him and those influenced by his work.

Leading the tributes was his wife, Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi, who took to Facebook to remember her late husband:

“Happy Heavenly Birthday, my Prince. Four years have passed since you left this world, yet my heart still feels your absence as though it were yesterday. Today, you would have turned 62. I miss the laughter, the warmth, the love – everything that made your birthdays special. I am endlessly grateful for the years we shared, for the love you poured into us, and for the memories that now live quietly in my heart, refusing to fade. Emeka, Dikachi, Kamsi, Chizaram, and I carry you with us in our thoughts, in our prayers, and in every beat of our hearts. You are gone from our sight, but never from our lives. My Prince, you are loved beyond words and remembered beyond time. Forever unforgettable.”

Tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and admirers, each reflecting the profound impact Obasi had in his lifetime. Uche Chris, Managing Editor of Business Hallmark, described him as a man whose life exemplified integrity and dedication: “A glorious life you lived, and we today remember your path in this part of life, with the belief that you are with Him who knows everything about us. Rest in peace, boss.”

Ije Jidenma echoed this sentiment, while Angela Onuoha simply said, “How time flies! Happy heavenly birthday to Prince. We miss you dearly. Continue to rest in perfect peace.”

Andrew Ufot prayed for strength for the family left behind: “May his soul continue to rest in peace, and may God continue to strengthen and support the family he left behind.”

Others recalled the personal and professional inspiration he provided. Georgelyn Chinwe wrote:

“Happy heavenly birthday, Emeka. The race is for everybody, but only God knows why He took you four years ago. Happy that Betty has covered the vacuum perfectly. May God continue to grant your soul eternal rest. Take heart, Betty, and be consoled.”

Dennis N Bonglap remembered him as “a very good man,” while Akínrópò Akinolá said, “My prince, I woke up this morning with your birthday alarm from my phone. We truly miss you on this side.”

Azuh Arinze described him as a “fantastic gentleman,” and Philomena Ihenyen wished him rest until the resurrection day. Dandi Akurunwa and Obinna Ibeh also added their tributes, acknowledging his enduring influence on their lives.

A Career of Impact and Achievement

Prince Obasi was an outstanding journalist, public relations expert, and entrepreneur. He earned an honours degree in English and Literary Studies in 1987, launching a career in journalism at Quality magazine, a subsidiary of Newswatch, where his diligence and talent quickly earned recognition.

Within a few years, he rose to Features Editor at Classique magazine, founded by May Ellen Ezekiel (MEE), before establishing his first public relations firm, Crown Communications Limited. Subsequent ventures, including Cameo Ad Ventures Limited and Patrioni Limited, cemented his status as a leading media and PR strategist.

He later founded Hallmark Newspaper, National Mirror, and ultimately Business Hallmark, which grew to become one of Nigeria’s most respected business publications.

Obasi also briefly served in public service as Head of Media Advisory Committee in Imo State, Special Adviser on Media, Research and Strategy to Orji Uzor Kalu, and Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism in Abia State, though he ultimately returned to journalism, insisting that politics was not his calling.

Posthumous Recognition

Since his passing, Prince Obasi’s contributions have continued to be recognised. In October 2024, Media Tiger Communication presented him with the Impactful Personality Award of Distinction for his service to journalism and society. In September 2022, the University of Calabar Alumni Association conferred a posthumous award on him for his selfless service. His hometown of Azueke Ibeku in Umuahia North, Abia State, also honoured him for his community development initiatives, including scholarships, mentoring programs, boreholes, housing support for widows, and other philanthropic works.

Legacy That Lives On

Prince Obasi’s life was defined by excellence, vision, and generosity. From nurturing young journalists to building institutions and uplifting his community, he left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s media landscape and society at large.

Even on the 62nd anniversary of his birth, the tributes make clear that his influence endures – in the media he shaped, the lives he touched, and the values he championed.