Chief Dubem Onyia, a former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, has passed away at the age of 73, his family confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday. Onyia died on Monday, March 10, 2025, following a brief illness, surrounded by his loved ones.
The family’s statement mourned his loss: “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hon. Chief Dubem Onyia, a revered statesman and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. He departed this world on Monday after a short illness, in the comforting presence of family. Chief Onyia devoted his life to God and the service of Nigeria, leaving an enduring legacy in the nation’s diplomatic sphere. His time as minister was defined by an unyielding dedication to Nigeria’s interests—a legacy that endures. A loving husband, father, brother, pioneer, and mentor, he was a man of impeccable character whose influence reached far beyond public office through his wisdom and generosity.”
Survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and a wide network of political associates and friends, Onyia’s family promised to share funeral details later.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah expressed profound sadness at the news, calling Onyia’s death a significant blow to both the state and the country. In a statement he personally penned on Tuesday, Mbah hailed Onyia as “a stellar leader, skilled diplomat, patriot, and intellectual who illuminated Nigeria’s path at home and abroad.” He added, “Ndi Enugu mourns the loss of Chief Dubem Gideon Onyia, a towering figure who served his community, state, and nation with brilliance. His death at 73 leaves a void.”
Onyia represented Nigeria in the House of Representatives and served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003 under President Olusegun Obasanjo. Mbah noted his extensive contributions: “He later held key roles such as Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Joint Commission, Chairman of the Sao Tome and Principe Joint Boundary Commission, and Chairman of the International Technical Commission for the National Boundary Commission. A member of the 1988/1998 Constituent Assembly, Secretary General of the Eastern Mandate Union, National Secretary of the Peoples Consensus Party, and a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Onyia was a giant—gentleman, philanthropist, and advocate for peace and justice.”
Mbah extended condolences, saying, “On behalf of Enugu State, I offer my deepest sympathies to his family, the Ngwo community, and the countless Nigerians touched by his remarkable service. May God grant his noble soul eternal rest.”
Born on February 23, 1952, in Enugu, Onyia’s educational journey took him from Ikeja District Primary School in Lagos and Fatima College in Ikire to the College of Immaculate Conception in Enugu. He pursued higher studies in the UK at Northampton College of Technology, Nene College (affiliated with Leicester University), and Coventry Polytechnic. His career spanned roles such as a clerical officer at Post and Telecommunications in Enugu, a trainee accountant at Trickers International Ltd in the UK, and an accountant at Evans Publishers in Ibadan. A seasoned administrator, he chaired multiple corporate boards, served on government committees, and was a trustee of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation.
