Nigeria Mourns Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief Dubem Onyia
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the passing of Chief Dubem Onyia, former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, with “shock and profound sadness”.
Statement by the acting spokesman of the Ministry, Kimebi Imomotimi Ebiefa, explained that, Chief Onyia died on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the age of 73, following a brief illness.
According to the statement, Onyia was a “trailblazer who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s global standing, advocating for peace, cooperation, and the advancement of Africa’s interests on the international stage.”
His commitment to national development and exemplary service to the nation will be remembered and cherished.
Onyia had a distinguished career in politics and public service, serving as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
He also held strategic positions, including Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission and Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission.
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, extended heartfelt condolences to Onyia’s family, friends, and associates, praying that God gives them the fortitude to bear this great loss