Former Nigerian Minister Dies In Abuja

Chief Dubem Onyia, a former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and ex-member of the House of Representatives, has passed on.

Onyia, who was elected to the House of Representatives in 1999 before resigning to serve in President Olusegun Obasanjo’s cabinet, passed away on Monday at a hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.

During his tenure as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003, he led several international negotiations and represented Nigeria in key diplomatic engagements.

He also served as Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission, Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission, and Chairman of the São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Boundary Commission.

Onyia was a member of various corporate boards and government committees, receiving multiple national and international honours for his contributions.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the family, friends, and associates of Chief Dubem Onyia, former minister of state for Foreign Affairs, who passed away on Monday at 73.

In a statement by Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President,
Information & Strategy, indicates that Chief Onyia was a brilliant administrator, accountant, and respected political leader. He hailed from Enugu State in the South-east.

In addition to his stint as minister of state for foreign affairs, he served as chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission, the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission, and the Sao Tome and Principe Joint Boundary Commission.

While mourning his passing, President Tinubu extols Chief Onyia’s rich record of service and commitment to nation-building.

The President describes the former minister as a statesman and patriot, highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s political development.

President Tinubu commiserates with the government and people of Enugu State, particularly the Ngwo Community, on the passing of their illustrious son.

The President prays that God Almighty will grant Chief Onyia’s soul peaceful repose and give solace to his family.