Okonjo-Iweala's Advice Keeps Chidoka in Nigeria

Osita Chidoka, the former Minister of Aviation, shared how a conversation with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala prevented him from leaving Nigeria during a difficult phase in his political career. Speaking at Paul Nwabuikwu’s book presentation, Chidoka recounted that Okonjo-Iweala, who had been a mentor since his tenure as Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, advised him against pursuing opportunities abroad.

After the exhausting 2019 elections, where he played a significant role in reconciling former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Chidoka felt disillusioned and considered returning to ExxonMobil or accepting international roles. However, during a visit to Okonjo-Iweala at Gavi in Washington, DC, she encouraged him to stay in Nigeria, stating, “Nigeria needs people like you.” This conversation profoundly impacted Chidoka, leading him to new ventures such as the Athena Centre, Mekaria Institute, ClearPath Media, and further involvement in public service.