Abubakar Momoh, recently appointed as the Nigerian Minister of Niger Delta Development, has a diverse background that sets him apart. The Edo-born politician, previously appointed as the Minister of Youth Development, has now been re-assigned by the Nigerian President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Before his political career, Momoh worked as a teacher at Ekperi Grammar School. He later pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), where his passion for education was evident. During his time at UNIBEN, he served as the Students’ Union Government (SUG) president, demonstrating early dedication to public service.
Momoh’s political journey began in the House of Representatives, where he served two terms representing the Etsako federal constituency of Edo state. He was initially a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) but switched to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019 to run in the Edo North senatorial election. After his loss, he returned to the APC.
Hailing from Etsako East local government area, Momoh is part of one of the three major ethnic groups in Edo state. His involvement in local politics includes serving as chairman of his home council and holding a councilorship position in Etsako local government area.
Described as a grassroots politician by the Vanguard newspaper, Momoh firmly believes in politics being best played at the local level. He continues to prioritize education, holding a master’s degree from both the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma. Momoh is a certified engineer, a registered member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and a fellow of the Institute of Public Administration (FPA).
Momoh’s loyalty to former Edo state governor Adams Oshiomhole is well-known. He actively supported Oshiomhole’s governorship campaign under the Action Congress (AC) in 2007. It is believed that Oshiomhole, an associate of President Bola Tinubu, nominated Momoh for the ministerial position.
Abubakar Momoh also holds several traditional titles in Edo North, such as Otsegbhe of Okpella Kingdom, Ezomo of Three Ibie Kingdom, Udi of Auchi Sacred Kingdom, Obhada of Okpe Kingdom, and Okhai of South Ibie Kingdom.
