Michael Okpara facts for kids
Michael Iheonukara Okpara (born December 25, 1920 – died December 17, 1984) was an important Nigerian politician. He served as the Premier of Eastern Nigeria from 1959 to 1966, during a time known as the First Republic. At 39 years old, he was the youngest Premier in the country. He strongly believed in what he called "pragmatic socialism," which meant a practical approach to making society better for everyone. He also thought that improving farming was key to Nigeria's success.
Quick facts for kids
Michael Iheonukara Okpara
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| Premier of Eastern Nigeria | |
| In office 1 October 1959 – 15 January 1966 |
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| Preceded by | Nnamdi Azikiwe |
| Succeeded by | Position abolished |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 25 December 1920 Umuahia, Southern Region, British Nigeria |
| Died | 17 December 1984 (aged 63) |
| Political party | National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons |
| Spouse | Adanma Enyidiya Okpara |
| Children | Nnawuihe Okpara, Uzodinma Okpara, Chinyere Okpara, Enyinna Okpara, Ugonwa Okpara, Ijeoma Okpara |
| Profession | Medical Doctor, Politician |
Contents
Life of Michael Okpara
Early Life and Education
Michael Okpara was born on December 25, 1920. His birthplace was Umuegwu Okpuala, a village near Umuahia in what is now Abia State, Nigeria. He was from the Ohuhu-Igbo community.
Even though his father was a laborer, Michael was able to go to school. He attended mission schools and later earned a scholarship. This scholarship allowed him to study medicine at Yaba Higher College in Lagos. After finishing his medical training, he worked for the government for a short time. Later, he opened his own medical practice in Umuahia.
Starting in Politics
While working as a doctor, Michael Okpara became interested in politics. He joined the Zikist Movement, a group connected to the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) party. This movement was named after a famous Nigerian leader, Nnamdi Azikiwe.
In 1949, there was some unrest involving workers at the Enugu coal mines. Okpara was briefly arrested because he was thought to be involved, but he was soon released. In 1952, when Eastern Nigeria gained more control over its own affairs, he was elected to the Eastern Nigerian House of Assembly. From 1952 to 1959, he held several important government jobs. These included Minister of Health and Minister of Agriculture.
In 1953, some members of the NCNC party disagreed with their leaders. However, Okpara remained loyal to Nnamdi Azikiwe. In November 1960, Azikiwe became Nigeria's first African Governor-General. After this, Michael Okpara was chosen to lead the NCNC party. His strong and direct way of speaking sometimes caused disagreements with other political parties, especially the Northern People's Congress.
Leading Eastern Nigeria
Michael Okpara was the leader of the NCNC party and the Premier of Eastern Nigeria. He held this important position from 1959 until 1966.
After Nigeria's Independence
In January 1966, there was a military takeover in Nigeria. Michael Okpara was among the politicians who were held for a short time. He survived this event.
Focus on Agriculture and Education
Okpara strongly believed in "pragmatic socialism." This meant he thought that practical actions could improve society for everyone. He felt that making farming much better was essential for Nigeria's future. To show his belief, he started and managed a large farm in his hometown. This farm, called Umuegwu Okpuala Mixed Farms, inspired many other leaders in Eastern Nigeria to start their own farms. He also worked hard to improve schools and build important structures like roads in Eastern Nigeria.
It is said that he never owned his own house while he was in government. After the Nigerian Civil War ended, he lived in Ireland for some time. Before he returned to Nigeria in 1979, his friends and people he had helped collected money. They used this money to build him a house in his village, Umuegwu. Michael Okpara passed away on December 17, 1984.
His Legacy
Michael Okpara was a respected figure. He was a member of the Royal Academy of Physicians of Great Britain. Many places and institutions in Nigeria are named after him. These include Michael Okpara Way in Abuja and the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Umudike. Okpara Square in Enugu and the Imo State Polytechnic (formerly Michael Okpara College of Agriculture) are also named in his honor.
In 1964, he received the GCON award. This stands for Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger and is one of Nigeria's highest honors. There are statues of him in Enugu and in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State.
