Sam Onuigbo, a member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), has served in various capacities, including political, supervisory and advocacy positions.
Here are 6 things to know about Sam Onuigbo:
1. Early Life and Education:
Born on Nigeria’s Independence Day in 1960, Abia politician Sir Sam Onuigbo’s educational journey began at Community Primary School Obuohia Obi-Ibere. He later attended Oboro Secondary Commercial School, Umudike, and Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri, earning a National Certificate in Education in 1983. Pursuing higher education, he obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Lagos and a Master’s in Business Administration from Enugu State University of Science and Technology.
2. International Training:
Onuigbo’s quest for knowledge led him to the prestigious John F Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, USA, where he attended an Executive Education Programme on Leadership. He also underwent courses at the US Department of State Foreign Service Institute and trained in Finance, Accounting, and Corporate Governance. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, London, and member of ASIS International, USA, he demonstrated commitment to professional development.
3. Career at U.S. Embassy:
With an illustrious career spanning eighteen years at the U.S Embassy (now US Consulate General Lagos, Nigeria), Onuigbo excelled, reaching the position of Supervisory Fraud Prevention Specialist. His tenure earned him several Meritorious Honour awards from the U.S Department of State, showcasing his dedication and expertise in the field.
4. Political Journey:
On the national stage, Onuigbo served as the Special Adviser, Public Affairs, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives, during the 6th Assembly. At the state level, he held key positions, including Commissioner for Lands and Survey and Commissioner for Finance in Abia State. Representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency from 2015-2023, he became the first to be re-elected from the constituency.
5. Leadership Roles in the House of Representatives:
During the 8th Assembly, Onuigbo chaired the House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change, showcasing his commitment to environmental issues. Currently, he holds the position of Vice President (Africa) of GLOBE International and serves as Chairman of the Security, Special Interventions, and Climate Change Committee, as well as a Member of the Governing Board, North East Development Commission.
6. Global Recognition for Climate Advocacy:
In 2023, Onuigbo’s impact extended globally as he was nominated as part of the Climate Action 30 Global Leaders. Recognised for his leadership in Africa, particularly in sponsoring Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021, he joins an impressive list of activists and leaders dedicated to environmental solutions. Expressing gratitude for the nomination, Onuigbo highlighted the collective effort involved in enacting the Climate Change Act and thanked his fellow lawmakers for their support. His achievements also include being inducted into the Most Valuable Parliamentarian Hall of Fame for the 9th Assembly, showcasing his exceptional contributions to Nigerian governance.
