Profile of Bianca Ojukwu, Minister-Designate of State for Foreign Affairs

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed Bianca Olivia Odinakachukwu Ojukwu as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

With her extensive background in international relations, diplomacy, law, and her previous ambassadorial roles, Bianca Ojukwu’s appointment comes as a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s foreign diplomacy.

Early Life and Education

Bianca Olivia Ojukwu was born on August 5, 1967, into a prominent family in Nnewi North, Anambra State. She pursued her early education in prestigious schools across Nigeria and abroad.

• Queen’s High School, Enugu (1978–1980)
• Ackworth School, England (1980–1982) – “O” Levels
• St. Andrews Tutorial College, Cambridge (1983–1984) – A Levels
• Cambridge Tutorial College, England (1984–1986) – A Levels

She furthered her higher education in law and international relations, obtaining degrees and diplomas from some of the best universities in the world.

University Education:

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1987–1991): LLB (Hons.), BL
• Nigerian Law School, Lagos (1991–1992): Called to the Bar
• Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio, Madrid, Spain (2016–2018): MSc International Relations and Diplomacy

Additionally, Bianca pursued advanced diplomatic training and specialized in Human Rights, International Relations, and Conflict Resolution.

Diplomatic and Political Career

Bianca-Ojukwu’s political and diplomatic journey is distinguished by her contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy and international relations. Below are the major highlights of her career:

1. Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain (2012–2015):

Bianca served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, overseeing diplomatic relations, promoting economic ties, and protecting the rights of Nigerians in Spain. She also led initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s position in global forums and secured multiple partnerships for economic development.

2. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UNWTO:

During her ambassadorship, Bianca was concurrently appointed as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Her focus was on promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth while preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Chairman, Contact Mobilization and Dialogue Committee (2017–2019):

Bianca Ojukwu was pivotal in coordinating political activities within the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), ensuring strong political dialogue and cooperation between various stakeholders. This role emphasized her expertise in political mobilization and negotiation.

4. Member of National Committees (2022):

Bianca was a member of national committees focused on the Economy, Security, and Transition, further reflecting her deep involvement in shaping national policies.

5. Secretary, Anambra State Truth, Justice, and Peace Commission (2022):

In 2022, Bianca played a critical role in leading the Anambra State Truth, Justice, and Peace Commission, which aimed to address issues of unrest and violence in the South-East region of Nigeria. Her efforts were directed toward achieving sustainable peace and security.

Professional Experience in Law and Business

Bianca Ojukwu’s experience extends beyond diplomacy. She has held significant positions in the business and legal sectors:

1. Managing Director, BiancaBlend Products Ltd. (2016–Present):

Bianca oversees the operations and creative direction of her company, which specializes in beauty products. She has led several successful product lines and marketing campaigns.

2. Legal Adviser and Director Roles (1997–2006):

Bianca held key legal and advisory roles in companies like RexOnoh Breweries, Eastern Bottling Company, and Bolivia Co. Nigeria Ltd. Her duties ranged from providing legal counsel to coordinating sales drives and promoting consumer products.

Contributions to Charity and Social Causes

Bianca has been actively involved in charity work, using her platform to uplift disadvantaged communities. She founded the Hope House Trust, a charity focused on rehabilitating juvenile offenders, and co-founded Shelter, an organization aimed at providing refuge for the homeless.

Charitable Involvements:

• Founder, Hope House Trust: Dedicated to the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders.
• Program Supervisor, Friends of the Needy Association: Helping marginalized groups access resources and support.
• Co-Founder, Shelter: Providing shelter for the homeless and destitute.

Key Achievements and Impact

• Diplomatic Achievements: As an Ambassador, Bianca Ojukwu was instrumental in strengthening Nigeria’s international presence and forming key partnerships with foreign governments.
• Conflict Resolution: Her work in the Truth, Justice, and Peace Commission was focused on addressing deep-rooted societal challenges, helping promote peace in the South-East region.
• Entrepreneurial Success: Through BiancaBlend Products Ltd., she contributed to Nigeria’s economy by creating jobs and promoting local beauty products.

Summary Table of Bianca Ojukwu’s Profile