Chief Michael Okpara’s legacy as a visionary leader and champion of agricultural development in Nigeria’s Eastern Region remains an integral part of the region’s history. Born on December 25, 1920, in Umuegwu-Akokwa, present-day Imo State, Nigeria, Okpara studied medicine at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, before returning to Nigeria to practice as a medical doctor.
His political journey began when he was elected to the Eastern Nigerian House of Assembly in 1954, and he later became the Premier of the Eastern Region in 1959 under the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) party. Michael Okpara was a beacon of progress, focusing on agricultural development to drive economic growth and improve the livelihoods of the region’s inhabitants.
One of his most notable achievements was the establishment of the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC) in 1959. This corporation was pivotal in spearheading the region’s industrial and agricultural development, leading to the establishment of industries such as the Nigeria Cement Company (NIGERCEM) and the Nigeria Coal Corporation.
Okpara also initiated the Rural Electrification Scheme, aiming to provide electricity to rural communities. His vision was to modernize agriculture and improve the standard of living in rural areas, showcasing his commitment to authentic progress rooted in African values.
Despite his impactful tenure, Okpara’s leadership was cut short by the Nigerian Civil War, during which he was arrested and imprisoned for over three years. Despite this setback, he remained a respected figure in Nigerian politics, advocating for the development of the Southeast region until his death on December 17, 1984.
Chief Michael Okpara’s legacy continues to inspire, highlighting the need for similar works and commercial revolutions like the NCNC. His efforts laid the foundation for the agricultural and industrial advancements in the region, making him a revered figure among the Igbo people and Nigerians at large. His story resonates as a testament to the pursuit of change and the importance of authentic progress deeply rooted in African/Igbo cultural values.
