Ogbonnaya Onu

Early Life and Background

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu was born on December 1, 1951, in Umuahia, which was then part of the Eastern Region of Nigeria and is now the capital of Abia State. Growing up in a period of significant political and social transformation in post-colonial Nigeria, Onu demonstrated exceptional intellectual curiosity and academic aptitude from a young age. His formative years were marked by a strong emphasis on education and community values, instilling in him a deep sense of responsibility and dedication to public service. His background in the southeastern part of Nigeria, a region known for its entrepreneurial spirit and academic pursuit, significantly shaped his worldview and future aspirations.

Education

Ogbonnaya Onu's educational journey is characterized by consistent excellence. He attended Mary Knoll College, Ogoja, in present-day Cross River State, where he distinguished himself academically. Following his secondary education, he gained admission to the prestigious University of Lagos, Yaba, Lagos State. In 1976, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, achieving a remarkable First Class Honours, a testament to his brilliance and dedication. His pursuit of knowledge did not end there; he proceeded to the United States for postgraduate studies. Dr. Onu earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering from the renowned University of California, Berkeley, in 1980. This advanced academic achievement from one of the world's leading institutions underscored his commitment to scientific rigor and innovation.

Career

Dr. Onu's career trajectory is multifaceted, encompassing significant roles in academia, state governance, and federal ministerial positions.

Academic Career (1981-1991): Upon his return to Nigeria, Dr. Onu embarked on an academic career, joining the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as a lecturer in 1981. His expertise and dedication quickly saw him rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering. During his decade-long tenure in academia, he contributed significantly to engineering education and research, mentoring numerous students and shaping the next generation of Nigerian engineers.

First Civilian Governor of Abia State (1992-1993): Dr. Onu transitioned into politics in the early 1990s, driven by a desire to contribute to national development at a governmental level. In 1992, he was elected as the first civilian Governor of Abia State under the platform of the National Republican Convention (NRC). At the time, he was one of the youngest governors in Nigeria. During his brief but impactful tenure, he initiated several progressive policies, including free education for all Abia State indigenes and a focus on rural development and infrastructure. His administration, however, was cut short in November 1993 following the military coup led by General Sani Abacha, which dissolved all democratic structures.

National Political Engagements (1999-2015): Following Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999, Dr. Onu remained an active figure in national politics. He was a presidential aspirant on multiple occasions, notably in 1999 and 2007, demonstrating his consistent vision for Nigeria's leadership. He served as the National Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) from 2001 to 2003, playing a crucial role in shaping opposition politics. He was also a prominent member and Secretary-General of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), advocating for electoral reforms and good governance. His political journey saw him become a key figure in the merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, where he served as a member of its Board of Trustees.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (2015-2022): In November 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu as the Minister of Science and Technology. He was re-appointed to the same portfolio, renamed Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, in August 2019, serving until May 2022 when he resigned to contest the APC presidential primary election. As minister, he was a staunch advocate for leveraging science, technology, and innovation (STI) for national development. His tenure was marked by a fervent push for the 'Made-in-Nigeria' policy, aiming to reduce import dependency, promote local content, and stimulate industrial growth. He initiated programs to commercialize research findings, establish technology incubation centers, and foster a robust innovation ecosystem across the country. He also championed STEM education and sought to update Nigeria's national science and technology policy framework.

Major Achievements

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu's career is dotted with significant achievements across different sectors:

• Pioneering Governor: As the first civilian Governor of Abia State, he laid foundational policies for education and rural development, demonstrating visionary leadership despite a curtailed tenure.
• Advocate for Local Content: As Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, he was the leading voice for the 'Made-in-Nigeria' initiative, tirelessly promoting the production and consumption of indigenous goods and services to enhance economic self-reliance.
• Promotion of STI: He spearheaded numerous initiatives to integrate science, technology, and innovation into Nigeria's national development agenda. This included efforts to commercialize research, establish technology parks and incubation centers, and encourage collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
• Political Unifier: He played a pivotal role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), contributing to the consolidation of opposition forces that ultimately led to a change in government in 2015.
• Academic Excellence: His distinguished academic career, culminating in a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and leadership as a Head of Department at the University of Port Harcourt, underscores his intellectual contributions.

Personal Life

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu is married to Dr. Chinyere Onu, and together they have children. He is known for maintaining a reputation of integrity, intellectualism, and a principled approach to public service. Despite his extensive political career, he has largely steered clear of major personal controversies, focusing instead on policy and national development. His family life remains relatively private, consistent with his generally unassuming public persona that prioritizes substance over spectacle. He is widely respected for his calm demeanor and thoughtful contributions to national discourse.

Legacy

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu's legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to a technologically advanced and self-reliant Nigeria. He will be remembered as a pioneer, both as the first civilian Governor of Abia State and as a relentless champion for science, technology, and innovation at the federal level. His emphasis on indigenous capacity building, the 'Made-in-Nigeria' mantra, and the commercialization of research has laid crucial groundwork for Nigeria's industrial and technological future. Beyond specific policies, his legacy also includes a reputation for integrity, intellectual rigor, and a consistent, principled approach to politics. He remains a respected elder statesman, whose vision continues to inspire younger generations of Nigerians to pursue excellence in both academia and public service, advocating for a Nigeria that can stand tall on the global stage through its own innovation and ingenuity.