Onoh Congratulates Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu on Appointment as Commonwealth CMAG Vice-Chair

Former Southeast spokesman to President Bola Tinubu, Denge (Dr) Josef Onoh, has congratulated Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, on her appointment as Vice-Chair of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG).

Onoh, who also chairs the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, urged the minister to use her new position to promote democratic governance, institutional accountability and respect for human rights across Africa.

The appointment was confirmed at the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2026) in Antigua and Barbuda.

In a statement issued from Oman, Onoh described the appointment as recognition of Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s diplomatic experience, intellectual ability and commitment to justice, equity and the rule of law.

He said the development was a source of pride to their family and reflected her years of service to Nigeria.

“This prestigious elevation on the global stage is a well-deserved recognition of your years of dedicated service to our nation,” Onoh said.

He noted that her new responsibility within the 56-member Commonwealth provided an opportunity to advance democratic leadership and strengthen accountability among member countries.

Onoh also urged the minister to uphold the principles of responsible diplomacy, particularly as African countries continue to face governance and human rights challenges.

He appealed to her to remain guided by integrity, courage and truth, which he described as values inherited from their late parents.

The former presidential spokesman cautioned against compromising those principles for short-term political interests, stressing that public office should be driven by service to humanity.

“Let your tenure be defined by the rare virtues of humility, deep empathy, and a steadfast dedication to humanity,” he said.

He further maintained that political positions were temporary, while the impact of public service and the integrity with which leaders discharge their responsibilities would endure.

“Politics and political offices are fleeting, but the impact we make on human lives and the integrity with which we serve endure forever. Always place the well-being of humanity far above the allure of political office,” Onoh added.

He expressed confidence in Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s ability to carry out her new responsibilities and prayed for wisdom, strength and divine protection as she assumes the role.

Onoh also expressed hope that her leadership would bring further recognition to their family, Nigeria and the African continent.