The recent appointment of Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, as Minister of Innovation Science and Technology by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has been widely commended as a timely and deserving choice.
Dr. Udeh’s elevation follows the recommendation of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State. His appointment fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Chief Uche Nnaji, maintaining continuity and fairness in Enugu State’s representation at the Federal Executive Council.
Governor Mbah’s recommendation reflects three clear principles — equity, excellence, and integrity. First, by selecting a replacement from the same Nkanu zone, he upheld fairness and inclusiveness. Second, he demonstrated pride in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), his alma mater, by recommending another distinguished graduate of its Faculty of Law. Third, his choice of Dr. Udeh, who served under him as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, reflects confidence in proven performance and character.
As Attorney General, Dr. Udeh led far-reaching reforms that strengthened Enugu’s legal and investment framework, helping to attract significant local and international investors. His professionalism, humility, and diligence earned him respect across the legal community and public service.
At just 45, Dr. Udeh has reached the top echelon of his profession. He is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Doctor of Laws (LL.D), and a member of the Body of Benchers — the highest legal body in Nigeria. He has also lectured at the Nigerian Law School, Bayelsa Campus, and Baze University, Abuja, mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.
Dr. Udeh’s academic journey spans multiple continents:
LL.B (Hons) – University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus
B.L – Nigerian Law School, Abuja
LL.M – University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
Ph.D (Law) – Stellenbosch University, South Africa
His broad exposure and expertise make him well suited to drive innovation and technological advancement in Nigeria.
Known for his integrity, Dr. Udeh once voluntarily returned a month’s salary upon his resignation from the Council of Legal Education, insisting he could not retain public funds for a period he would not serve. Such ethical standards underscore his suitability for national leadership.
President Tinubu deserves commendation for this wise and forward-looking decision. The appointment aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, bringing a blend of competence, youth, and integrity into the Federal Executive Council.
Governor Peter Mbah also merits recognition for his sound judgment and mentorship. His governance philosophy — “Our Tomorrow is Here” — finds true expression in this appointment, which promises to deliver value to both Enugu State and the nation.
Nigerians have welcomed Dr. Udeh’s appointment with optimism, confident that his expertise and leadership will contribute significantly to national development in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
Chukwunenye Okpara, Esq.
Legal Practitioner, Abuja.