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HON. ONYIBA AJA NWACHUKU CFR

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NIGERIA’S FIRST FEDERAL MINISTER OF EDUCATION 1918-2001

Introduction

Onyiba Aja Nwachuku was a prominent Nigerian educationist, politician, and public servant. He served as Nigeria's first Federal Minister of Education from 1957 to 1965.[1] During his tenure, he played a critical role in establishing foundational policies for Nigeria's education system, contributing significantly to the development of educational infrastructure in the country.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 1, 1918, in Okposi-Okwu, Ebonyi State, Aja Nwachuku received his early education at Church Missionary Society (CMS) School in Okposi and Uburu. He later pursued further education from Wolsey Hall, Oxford, and the London School of Commerce, where he obtained a Diploma in Accountancy, Bookkeeping, and Company Secretarial Practice.

Career and Contributions

Aja Nwachuku began his career as a headmaster at CMS School in Oshiri from 1936 to 1938. He later worked in various administrative roles, including as a court scribe and treasurer. His political career took off when he was elected as a member of the Federal House of Assembly representing Afikpo in 1954.[2] He was appointed as the Minister of Social Services from 1955 to 1957 before becoming Nigeria's first Federal Minister of Education.[3]

As Minister of Education, Aja Nwachuku was instrumental in establishing the first Federal Government Colleges at Okposi, Warri, and Sokoto.[4] He also spearheaded the creation of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Lagos, which have since become leading institutions in Nigeria. Under his leadership, the Federal Ministry of Education awarded scholarships to numerous Nigerian students, contributing to the nation's intellectual growth.

Legacy and Honors

Aja Nwachuku's contributions to Nigeria's educational development were recognized both nationally and internationally.[5][6] In 1962, President William Tubman of Liberia awarded him the Knighthood of the Grand Band of the Order of African Redemption. In 1983, he was honored with the title of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by Nigeria's first Executive President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari. Other honors include the naming of the National Universities Commission building in Abuja after him by President Ibrahim Babangida in 1992.[7]

Aja Nwachuku was also a key figure in the creation of Ebonyi State, playing a leading role in the presentation of the case for its creation to the Arthur Mbanefo Panel in 1996.

Personal Life

Aja Nwachuku was married and had many children and grandchildren, all of whom are well-established in their respective fields. He was known for his philanthropy, providing scholarships to many underprivileged but talented students in his community. His hobbies included gardening, swimming, and reading.

Death

Onyiba Aja Nwachuku passed on on February 27, 2001, leaving behind a legacy of service to his community and nation.

  1. ^ "List of education ministers of Nigeria", Wikipedia, 2024-09-16, retrieved 2024-09-26
  2. ^ "1954 Nigerian general election", Wikipedia, 2024-04-13, retrieved 2024-09-26
  3. ^ nigerianleaders (2024-08-06). "List Of All Ministers Of Education In Nigeria (1958-Present)". Nigerian Leaders. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
  4. ^ "Aja Nwachuku, Federal Minister of Education, Nigeria, 1958 | Archives and Manuscripts". findingaids.lib.msu.edu. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
  5. ^ "12th UNESCO General Conference- Nigeria's Delegation". UNESCO Multimedia Archives. 2022-06-17. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
  6. ^ "Conference of African Ministers of Education: Nigeria's educational priorities". UNESCO Multimedia Archives. 2022-06-17. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
  7. ^ "NATIONAL UNIVERSITIES COMMISSION AJA NWACHUKWU HOUSE - Google Search". www.google.com. Retrieved 2024-09-26.