Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief Dubem Onyia, has passed away at the age of 73. His family confirmed his demise in a statement on Tuesday, revealing that he died on Monday, March 10, 2025, following a brief illness.

Family’s Statement on His Passing

The statement released by Onyia’s family expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, highlighting his contributions to public service and diplomacy.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hon. Chief Dubem Onyia, a distinguished statesman and former Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

“He passed away on Monday, following a brief spell of illness, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

“Chief Onyia dedicated his life to God and public service, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape at home and overseas. His tenure as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs was marked by his unwavering commitment to national interest, which remains his legacy.

“He was a devoted husband, father, brother, a trailblazer, respected leader, a mentor to many, and a man of great integrity. His contributions extended beyond government service, touching the lives of many through his wisdom, generosity, and dedication to improving lives.

“Chief Onyia is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, many relatives, political allies, and friends. Details of funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.”

Enugu State Governor Pays Tribute

Reacting to the news, Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, described Onyia’s death as a significant loss to both the state and the country.

In a statement personally signed by him on Tuesday, Governor Mbah lauded the late politician as a distinguished leader and diplomat who devoted his life to public service at local, national, and international levels.

“Ndi Enugu received with a deep sense of grief and loss the passing of statesman and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief Dubem Gideon Onyia, aged 73.

“Chief Onyia was a distinguished leader, fine diplomat, patriot, consummate public servant, and quintessential intellectual who shone more than a million stars in the service of his community, Enugu State, and Nigeria as a whole.”

Mbah emphasized that Onyia’s legacy would live on through his vast contributions to governance, diplomacy, and national development.

Onyia’s Career and Contributions to Nigeria

Chief Dubem Onyia was a seasoned administrator, diplomat, and politician who played a vital role in Nigeria’s political landscape. He served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and foreign policy.

Beyond his ministerial role, Onyia held several other key positions, including:

• Chairman, Nigeria Economic Joint Commission
• Chairman, Sao Tome and Principe Joint Boundary Commission
• Chairman, International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission

His impact extended beyond government appointments, as he was instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s constitutional and political development. He was a member of the 1988/1998 Constituent Assembly in Abuja, Secretary General of the Eastern Mandate Union, and National Secretary of the Peoples Consensus Party. Onyia was also a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he later served as a national officer.

Governor Mbah acknowledged Onyia’s influence as a philanthropist, promoter of peace, and advocate for justice and equity, describing him as a “colossus in all ramifications” whose service, experience, and knowledge will be deeply missed.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Enugu State, I send heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Ngwo, and indeed millions of Nigerians whose lives were directly and indirectly touched by the distinguished service of this great patriot.

“Importantly, I pray God to grant his fine soul eternal repose,” the governor added.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 23, 1952, in Enugu, Dubem Onyia had a solid academic background that shaped his career in governance and diplomacy. He attended:

• Ikeja District Primary School, Lagos
• Fatima College, Ikire
• College of Immaculate Conception, Enugu

For his higher education, Onyia furthered his studies in the United Kingdom, where he attended:

• Northampton College of Technology
• Nene College (an affiliate of Leicester University)
• Coventry Polytechnic

His educational pursuits prepared him for a distinguished career in finance, governance, and international relations.

Professional and Administrative Career

Before his venture into politics, Onyia worked in various professional roles across different industries. His career journey included positions such as:

• Clerical Officer at Post and Telecommunications, Enugu
• Trainee Accountant at Trickers International Ltd, UK
• Accountant at Evans Publishers, Ibadan

As a respected administrator, he also served on multiple corporate boards and government committees, contributing to the economic and infrastructural development of Nigeria.

He was also a trustee of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, an organization committed to leadership development and democratic governance.

A Legacy of Service and Dedication

Chief Dubem Onyia’s contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic landscape remain invaluable. His dedication to public service, diplomacy, and governance ensured that his influence extended beyond his ministerial tenure. As the nation mourns his passing, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and policymakers.

Details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.