Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa: A lifetime of dedicated service and leadership excellence

Sir Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa is an astute Nigerian administrator and dedicated civil servant whose long years in public service earned him respect across different institutions.

Known for his resilience and strong work ethic, he built a career defined by discipline, loyalty, and professionalism.

Background

Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa, fondly known as “Osukwu Dalije” and “Omere Madu–Omere Maa,” was born on February 4, 1961, in Obuoffia, Awkunanaw, in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

He hails from the respected Ohaa Owo family of Amangwu Autonomous Community. Raised in a disciplined and community-focused environment, he grew up with strong values of integrity, humility, and service.

Academic qualifications

Sir Ohaa’s educational journey reflects consistent academic progress. He obtained his General Certificate of Education (GCE) in 1979 and West African School Certificate (Division 1) in 1980.

He later earned a Higher National Diploma in Finance in 1985, a Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy and Finance in 1990, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Banking and Finance in 1992.

Professionally, he became a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (FCNA) in 2010 and a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) in 2012.

He also attended several international courses and leadership programmes, including Strategic Planning for Security and Development in London (2010), Security Awareness and Strategic Leadership in London (2012), as well as other training sessions in the United States and Dubai.

Early career in public service

Sir Ohaa began his professional career during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the former Co-operative and Commerce Bank of Nigeria between 1985 and 1986.

Shortly after, he was appointed Senior Bursar at the Enugu State Education Commission from 1986 to 1989.

He later moved to the private sector as Company Accountant at Vanguard Industries Ltd, Enugu between 1989 and 1992.

Returning to public service, he served as Personal Assistant to the Honourable Commissioner for Finance in Enugu State from 1992 to 1993.

Between 1993 and 1999, he held treasury positions in the Office of the Accountant General of Enugu State, serving in different capacities as Sub-Treasurer.

Leadership roles

In 1999, Sir Ohaa was appointed Accountant-General of Enugu State, a position he held until 2006.

During this period, he was associated with financial reforms and improved fiscal management practices within the state.

In 2006, he was appointed Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture in Enugu State, where he contributed to policies aimed at boosting agricultural development before leaving the role in 2007.

Transition to the Federal Civil Service

In 2007, Sir Ohaa transferred his service to the Federal Civil Service as Deputy Director (Accounts) at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity. His expertise in financial management led to further appointments.

In 2009, he became Head of Internal Audit at the Ministry of Defence, serving until 2012.

He was later posted as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Transport between 2012 and 2013, and subsequently at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

Appointment as Permanent Secretary

In November 2015, Sir Ohaa reached the peak of his civil service career when he was appointed Permanent Secretary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The appointment was widely seen as recognition of his dedication, loyalty, and administrative competence.

He served in various ministries, including the Federal Ministry of Power, where he was commended for collaborative leadership and innovation in administration.

He also served as Permanent Secretary in the Federal Capital Territory administration. After 35 years of service, he retired on February 4, 2021, in line with civil service regulations.

Chairmanship at ESUT

Following his retirement from the federal civil service, Sir Ohaa continued to contribute to public life.

He was appointed Chairman of the Governing Council of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).

However, on February 23rd, 2026, he resigned from the position as Chairman of the Governing Council of ESUT. His resignation marked the end of his formal leadership role at the institution.

Family

Sir Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa is a devoted Christian and is happily  married with children, he is widely regarded as a committed community leader.

Philanthropy

Beyond government service, Sir Ohaa is known for his involvement in community development and religious activities.

He has supported several grassroots projects in Awkunanaw and surrounding communities.

He served as National President of the Awkunanaw Welfare Association and as Lay President of Methodist Church Nigeria, Agbani Diocese.

He is also widely recognised for his passion for youth empowerment, mentoring, and rural development.