Edwin OGbu Leadership Center

The Foundations’ first project features the construction of the Edwin Ogbu Leadership Center at Methodist College Uzuakoli. This is where the late and great Dr. Edwin O. Ogbu attended, his life, both in service to Nigeria and in his personal interactions, was guided by the values he carried from Uzuakoli— “You before I.” His dedication to public service, much like that of his fellow Uzumeco alumnus, Dr. Michael Okpara, who transformed Eastern Nigeria’s economy, was a testament to the education and ethos instilled at Methodist College.

In his honor. a fitting tribute to his leadership and values will be the establishment of the Edwin O. Ogbu Leadership Center at Methodist College, Uzuakoli. This center will be dedicated to raising the next generation of leaders, equipped with the same values that made Uzuakoli one of Nigeria’s finest institutions of learning. Leadership and development are vital to the progress of any society, and this center will ensure that Uzumeco continues to produce leaders of great moral character and intellect.

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About Dr. Ogbu:

Dr. Edwin Ogebe Ogbu was a distinguished Nigerian diplomat and civil servant whose influence was felt both nationally and internationally. An alumnus of Bethune-Cookman College with degrees in Sociology and Anthropology, he furthered his education with a Master’s in Education from Stanford University. His academic background laid a strong foundation for a career dedicated to public service and diplomacy.

Between 1968 and 1975, Ogbu served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. During this pivotal period, he became the Chairman of the UN Special Committee Against Apartheid from 1972 to 1975, playing a crucial role in global efforts to dismantle apartheid in South Africa. Concurrently, from 1970 to 1974, he was appointed as the High Commissioner to several Caribbean nations, including Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Guyana, strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties with these countries.

Ogbu’s commitment to international diplomacy extended to his leadership of the UN Committee on Namibia and involvement in various peacekeeping missions. His outstanding contributions were recognized with multiple honorary doctorates, reflecting his significant impact on Nigeria and the global community.

After concluding his diplomatic career, he returned to his homeland in Idoma land, where he focused on community development. In 1996, his dedication to his people culminated in his enthronement as the Och’Idoma III, the traditional ruler of the Idoma people, continuing his lifelong legacy of leadership and service.