Farewell and condolence messages have continued to pour in following the death of Engr. Chief Gilbert Olong, a respected community leader, philanthropist and retired senior manager with Chevron, who passed away on August 21, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, after a brief illness.

His death was officially announced by his family on August 27, 2026, in a statement issued by the Bhreleke Development Association. The announcement, which was made with deep sorrow but gratitude for his life and legacy, described him as a beloved son, brother, father, uncle, husband and community leader.

The statement read in part:

“With heavy hearts but with gratitude to God for a life well lived, the Bhreleke Development Association announces the demise of our beloved Son, Brother, Father, Uncle and Husband, Chief Engr. Gilbert Ogbala Udonu Olong, who departed this life on 21/08/2026.”

Engr. Gilbert Olong hailed from Ronyong of Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria.

He distinguished himself during his professional career at Chevron, where he served as a senior manager and recruiter from 1992 to 2021. Over the years, his career was marked by professionalism, discipline, leadership and a commitment to developing people.

Beyond his corporate achievements, however, those who knew him closely remember him for his generosity and willingness to support others.

Engr. Olong was also a devoted Catholic whose commitment to his faith extended beyond personal worship.

He supported the Catholic Church and offered assistance to young Catholic priests in ways that, according to those close to him, words may not adequately describe.

His Christian faith was reflected in his relationship with people and in the numerous acts of kindness he extended to individuals, families and institutions.

For the people of Ufia, Ado, Chevron and beyond, Engr. Olong’s passing represents the loss of a man who played an important role in the lives of many.

He was a community leader and philanthropist who touched lives through his generosity, counsel and support.

During his lifetime, he became a source of assistance to many people, particularly young men and women who benefited from his encouragement and intervention at different stages of their lives.

His influence extended beyond his immediate community, with people from different parts of Nigeria benefiting from his generosity and leadership.

For many, he was more than a successful professional. He was a breadwinner, mentor, benefactor and father figure, helping to raise and support a generation of successful men and women.

A Painful Loss

The news of his death has therefore been met with profound sadness among family members, friends, colleagues, members of the Catholic community and beneficiaries of his generosity.

For those who encountered him during his lifetime, the memories of his kindness, leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of others are likely to remain long after his passing.

His death has created a painful void for his family and community, particularly for those who depended on his counsel, support and presence.

As family, friends and well-wishers mourn the passing of a distinguished son of Bhreleke, they also celebrate a life that left meaningful footprints in the lives of many.

The family and Bhreleke Development Association stated that further details concerning the funeral and burial arrangements would be announced in the coming weeks.

Engr. Chief Gilbert Ogbala Udonu Olong may have departed this world, but the impact of his life, his professional contributions, his Christian faith, his philanthropy and the people he helped will remain part of his enduring legacy.

May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant his family, friends, Ufia Kingdom and the entire Ado local Government the strength and comfort to bear this great loss.