Former Minister passes away

Former Minister passes away

Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and ex-member of the House of Representatives, Chief Dubem Onyia, has passed away at the age of 73. He died on Monday at an Abuja hospital following a brief illness.

Chief Onyia had a distinguished career in politics and public service. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1999 but resigned to serve as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003. During his tenure, he played a key role in Nigeria's foreign relations, holding strategic positions such as Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission and Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission.

Beyond politics, Chief Onyia served on numerous corporate boards and government committees, earning multiple national and international honors. He was also a trustee of the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Foundation, contributing to national development initiatives.

Chief Onyia hailed from Enugu Ngwo in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, where he was a notable community leader. He held the traditional title of Chinenyeze and was a member of Ubelenze Ozo in Ngwo clan.