The Legacy of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu: A Tribute to a True Nigerian Statesman

Vice President Kashim Shettima has paid tribute to the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, a former Minister of Science and Technology, describing him as a true statesman and an accomplished Nigerian leader whose impact on Nigeria’s political landscape is immeasurable.

Dr. Onu, who passed away at the age of 72, was a man of integrity, wisdom, and unwavering principles.

His remarkable life and contributions to Nigeria’s development will forever be remembered by the nation.

As the first civilian governor of Abia State, Dr. Onu laid a strong foundation for good governance and democratic principles.

His dedication to nation-building was evident in his focus on fostering scientific advancements and technological innovation in Nigeria, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Onu graduated with a First Class Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos in 1976 and later obtained his doctorate in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.

He began his political career after a successful career in academia, serving as a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers, where he rose to become the pioneer Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering and acting dean of the engineering faculty.

His political journey began when he unsuccessfully sought a senatorial ticket of the National Party of Nigeria in the old Imo.

He later contested and was elected the first civilian governor of Abia in 1991 under the platform of the National Republic Convention.

In 1999, Dr. Onu became the presidential candidate of the All Peoples Party (APP) but later gave up his position to Olu Falae after the APP merged with the Alliance for Democracy. In 2015,

he was appointed as Minister of Science and Technology by the Nigerian President at the time, Buhari, and in 2019, he became the longest-serving minister in the ministry with his reappointment.

Vice President Shettima expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Onu, stating that his legacies will continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.

He also offered his deepest sympathies to the family during this difficult time and prayed that the Almighty would grant Dr. Onu’s soul rest and provide the family with the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, scientific advancements, and technological innovation will never be forgotten, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of Nigerians as a true patriot and a dedicated leader.