Nation Mourns Passing Of Former Foreign Minister, Chief Dubem Onyia

Nigeria mourns the passing of Chief Dubem Onyia, the pioneer Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, who died on Monday, March 10th, 2025, at the age of 73 after a brief illness.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced his death, calling it a “great loss to the nation.”

Chief Onyia, who came from Enugu Ngwo in Enugu State, had a significant impact on Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape.

Acting Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa stated that he was a “trailblazer” who dedicated his life to advancing Nigeria’s interests on a global scale.

His contributions included advocating for peace and cooperation and actively representing Africa’s interests in international forums.

His career encompassed both politics and public service. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1999 and later joined former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, serving as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs between 1999 and 2003.

In addition to his ministerial role, Chief Onyia served as the Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission, the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission, and the São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Boundary Commission.

He also served on a number of corporate boards and government committees, earning numerous national and international awards for his efforts.

He was also a trustee of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to national development initiatives.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised Chief Onyia’s “unwavering commitment to national development and exemplary service to the nation,” stating that his legacy will be remembered.

Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar expressed condolences to Chief Onyia’s family, friends, and associates, and prayed for strength in their time of grief.

The nation mourns the death of this distinguished statesman and diplomat.