Prominent academics, civil society leaders, and public officials gathered in Abuja to celebrate the 60th birthday of renowned journalist, author, and civic advocate Chido Onumah, in an event marked by reflections on governance, activism, and nation-building.
The commemoration, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, drew a wide range of stakeholders from academia, media, civil society, and government.
A Celebration of Civic Engagement and Intellectual Contribution
Speaking at the event, Omoniyi Ibietan, Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association, described Dr. Onumah as a close associate and long-time collaborator whose influence extended into his professional and literary journey.
Ibietan recounted how Onumah played a key role in mentoring him, involving him in multiple professional networks, contributing to edited publications, and encouraging him to publish his first book, which was later publicly presented in 2023.
Intellectual Discourse on Nation-Building
The celebration featured a public lecture delivered by Prof. Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, a scholar of economic history and development studies, titled “Formation or Nation Building: Nigeria’s Troubled Quest for a Modern Federal Republic.”
The lecture set the tone for a broader discussion on governance and national development, bringing together prominent panelists including former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, human rights lawyer Femi Falana, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa Samson Itodo, and policy advocate Ebenezer Wikina, among others.
Discussions focused on democratic accountability, civic responsibility, and the role of citizens in shaping national progress.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Collaboration
The event was convened by journalist and publisher Dapo Olorunyomi, who described Dr. Onumah as a committed advocate for civic freedom and public accountability. Organisers noted that the gathering was intentionally designed to honour his decades-long contribution to public discourse and activism.
Speakers highlighted Onumah’s involvement in civic initiatives, including his work on governance reform and citizen engagement platforms, as well as his long-standing collaboration with key media and civil society actors.
Reflections from National Leaders
The occasion was chaired by former Governor of Ekiti State Kayode Fayemi, while the Special Guest of Honour, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, delivered remarks praising Dr. Onumah’s integrity, consistency, and contributions to national discourse.
Ribadu described Onumah as a “good, honest and simple Nigerian,” noting his longstanding relationships with key figures in governance and civil society, and commending his role in strengthening civic engagement.
A Gathering of Shared Values
Participants emphasized that the event went beyond a birthday celebration, serving instead as a platform for reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the importance of sustained civic activism.
As discussions concluded, speakers reaffirmed the need for continued collaboration between government, civil society, and intellectuals in advancing democratic values and national development.
The celebration ended with widespread tributes, underscoring Dr. Onumah’s enduring influence on journalism, activism, and public discourse in Nigeria.