Former Foreign Affairs Minister Dubem Onyia Passes Away

Tributes Pour in for Dubem Onyia at 73

Former Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief Dubem Onyia, has passed away at the age of 73. He died on Monday, March 10, 2025, in Abuja, following a brief illness, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Chief Onyia, a native of Ngwo in Enugu State, dedicated his life to public service, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape. His tenure as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs was marked by his unwavering commitment to national interests, earning him respect both domestically and internationally.

Beyond his ministerial role, Onyia served in various capacities, including as Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission, Chairman of the São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Boundary Commission, and Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission. He was also a trustee of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation.

Born on February 23, 1952, in Enugu, Onyia’s educational journey took him through Ikeja District Primary School in Lagos, Fatima College in Ikire, Osun State, and the College of the Immaculate Conception in Enugu. He furthered his studies in the United Kingdom, attending Coventry Polytechnic and Northampton College of Technology, Nene College (an affiliate of Leicester University).

His career began as a clerical officer at Post and Telecommunications (P&T) in Enugu, followed by roles as a trainee accountant at Trickers International Ltd in the UK, and as an accountant at Evans Publishers in Ibadan.

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

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, expressed profound sadness over Onyia’s passing, describing it as a monumental loss. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged Onyia’s significant contributions to the state’s development and Nigeria’s diplomatic community.

Chief Dubem Onyia’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and statesman will be remembered for years to come.