Ngunan Kwaghmande (15 September 1966 – 1 March 2004), later known as Ngunan Bassey Samuel, was a Nigerian performing artist, dancer, and cultural ambassador. Hailing from Utange in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State, she was celebrated for her exceptional talent, humility, and commitment to promoting Tiv, Benue, and Nigerian arts both nationally and internationally. Ngunan’s life was marked by a seamless blend of devotion to God and excellence in the performing arts, inspiring countless colleagues and communities.
Ngunan was born to the family of the late Kwaghmande Ajir in Utange. She spent her formative years in Jos, Utange, and Mkar, attending Mkar Demonstration Nursery and Primary School before enrolling at the Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Gboko. It was at secondary school that her talent for dance first became apparent, drawing admiration from peers and teachers alike. A contemporary noted, “I came across her in secondary school where she was a year ahead of me. What attracted me were her dance steps. She was a wonderful dancer even during the disco era.”
Upon completing secondary school in 1982, Ngunan was recruited as a pioneer artiste by the Benue State Council for Arts and Culture. She later attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for professional training in Cultural Arts. Her exceptional performances quickly gained recognition, earning her a place in the National Troupe of Nigeria in 1989. At the troupe, she trained under Chief Hubert Adedeji Ogunde, one of the doyens of Nigerian theatre, and other distinguished personalities in the Nigerian performing arts industry.
Ngunan excelled as both a dancer and singer, known for her versatility, leadership, and ability to mentor other artistes. Colleague Prince Edward Gondo remarked:
“Ngunan had exceptional performing qualities. At the National Troupe, she was my player. Whether leading or following, she performed remarkably. She traveled extensively, representing Nigeria in Brazil, the USA, North Korea, Japan, Ghana, Egypt, and across Europe. She was truly an ambassador for both the state and the nation.”
Her international performances included the first World Music Festival organized by the Commonwealth (1983), representation at the All African Games in Egypt (1990–1991), a tour of North America (1992, 1995), and multiple tours in Japan and Spain. In Spain, her performances drew admiration not only from Nigerian audiences but also from international groups, who invited her to social gatherings because of her presence and talent.
Richard Tsevende, Director of the Benue State Arts Council, recounted:
“Ngunan came out as the best dancer during auditions for the pioneer members of the Benue Arts Council Troupe. She went on to perform in London at the Commonwealth Institute in 1983 and excelled. At the National Troupe, she taught dances, trained other artistes, and performed with precision and passion. Her skill in adapting and learning new dance steps was exceptional.”
Ngunan was a devout Christian whose faith informed every aspect of her life. Born again for several decades, she actively participated in evangelism and ministry. While in Makurdi, she attended Makurdi Christian Centre, and after relocating to Lagos for the National Troupe, she joined Christ Chapel International Church. There, she engaged in outreach, intercessory prayer, church planting, and the drama ministry, Patmos Playhouse.
It was during a church outreach in Ghana in 1996 that she met her husband, Rev. Bassey Samuel. Following her disengagement from the National Troupe in 1999, she moved with her family to Cameroon, where she continued her ministry, leading prayer teams, and offering spiritual guidance and healing in communities, hospitals, and markets.
Colleague Mrs. Janet Daagba testified:
“Ngunan was a God-fearing person. She introduced me to Christ and guided me in my faith. She always put God first, even while excelling professionally. Her smile, humility, and dedication to both her work and God were inspiring.”
Ngunan’s life was a blend of cultural excellence and spiritual influence. She inspired and mentored numerous colleagues, changing lives through her work and faith. Prince Edward Gondo reflected:
“Her contributions to Tiv and Nigerian theatre are unmatched. She should have been given a state burial and had a hall named after her. She was one of the highest-ranking female artistes, a Principal Artiste at the National Troupe, and truly a cultural ambassador.”
Despite her death on 1 March 2004, Ngunan’s legacy endures through her performances, her spiritual impact, and the lives she touched. She is remembered as a devoted Christian, an extraordinary artiste, a mentor, and a model of humility, faith, and excellence.
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