Isoun, a professor of veterinary medicine by training, Isoun made his most enduring mark during his tenure as minister of science and technology in the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He was widely credited with driving Nigeria’s early push into information technology and space exploration.

Among his most consequential initiatives was the establishment of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the creation of Galaxy Backbone Plc, a government ICT firm set up to harmonise national communication networks and build a reliable broadband infrastructure across the country.

Under his watch, Nigeria also achieved landmark milestones in space technology, including the launch of NigeriaSat-1 and Nigcomsat 1R, two satellites that marked a defining chapter in the country’s scientific history. Before his ministerial career, Isoun had already distinguished himself in academia.

He served as the founding vice chancellor of the University of Science and Technology in Port Harcourt in the old Rivers state, now known as Rivers State University, laying what Governor Diri described as the solid foundations of the country’s first technology-focused university.

Bayelsa mourns Turner Isoun

Beyond his academic and governmental roles, Isoun remained deeply connected to his Ijaw heritage. He served as chairman of the Ijaw National Congress, Central Zone, and played a notable part in the political process that led to the creation of Bayelsa state from the old Rivers state in 1996.

“The Odi-born scientist would be greatly missed for his candour, wise counsel and commitment to Ijaw socio-cultural values,” Governor Diri said, while extending condolences from the Bayelsa state Government to the Isoun family and community.

He urged them to take comfort in the late elder statesman’s lasting contributions to national life.

It read, “Late Mrs Mary Amaechi was a cherished matriarch who held her family together in love, peace and unity. She was a community women’s leader and Christian leader, whose beliefs and faith in God were firm and resolute.”

The family added that she was “loved and highly respected in her community, and will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support for those around her and beyond.”

The statement said Amaechi and his family also expressed appreciation for the messages of condolence received since their matriarch’s death.

“Rt Hon. Amaechi and the entire family are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of condolences and love already being shown to them during this difficult time.

“Details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared with the public in due course. The family appreciates the continued thoughts and prayers from friends, supporters, and well-wishers,” the statement added.

The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked three schools in Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

The victims regained their freedom after spending about 57 days in captivity following a coordinated rescue operation by security agencies.

During the initial attack, two teachers— Mr Michael Oyedokun and Mr Esiyan Adegboye —were killed by the abductors. While Adegboye’s body was recovered and buried shortly after the incident, Oyedokun’s remains have yet to be found.

His family has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies to recover his body to enable them give him a befitting burial.

The rescue operation also claimed the lives of several military and other security personnel involved in securing the victims’ release, with the Oyo State Government paying tribute to their courage and sacrifice.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the bereaved families while honouring the memory of those who lost their lives in the line of duty and in the attack.