Grace Ogwuche, first female minister from Idoma land inducted into Hall of Fame

Dr. Grace Ooja Ogwuche, the first female Federal Minister from Idoma land, has been inducted into the Idoma Hall of Fame in recognition of her pioneering role in public service.

Ogwuche was honoured at the maiden induction ceremony held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Peach Vine Event Centre, Wuye, Abuja.

She was represented at the ceremony by Barr. David Mike Agada, who delivered her acceptance speech on her behalf, as the former minister was in the United States and could not attend physically.

In her acceptance speech, Ogwuche expressed profound gratitude to the organisers for finding her worthy of the recognition, describing the honour as a privilege and a reminder of the importance of service, dedication and commitment to the advancement of the Idoma people.

She also acknowledged the role of her mentor, former Senate President Senator David Mark, whom she thanked for his guidance, mentorship, encouragement and support throughout her career.

The former minister said she remained grateful for the opportunity to learn from Mark’s wealth of experience in leadership and public service, adding that mentorship was one of the greatest gifts anyone could receive.

Ogwuche’s career in the Federal Government extended beyond education. She served as Minister of State for Education and also held responsibilities in the areas of Inter-Governmental Affairs, Youth Development and Special Duties, as well as Agriculture and Water Resources.

Her induction celebrates her place in the history of Idoma representation in the Federal Government and her contribution to public administration.

She congratulated the other inductees and commended the organisers for establishing a platform to celebrate the achievements of distinguished Idoma sons and daughters, preserve the community’s collective heritage and inspire younger generations.

Among the prominent personalities listed for recognition at the maiden ceremony were former Senate President Senator David Mark; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; TETFund Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono; legendary musician Dr. Bongos Ikwue; music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba; founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche; legal luminary Chief Godwin Obla, SAN; economist Prof. Ode Ojowu; former Supreme Court Justice James Ogenyi Ogebe; and former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. James Abu Obe.
Other women recognised for their achievements included former federal lawmaker Ada Mark-Ogbole, Dr. Mary Ada Ogbe, Hon. Justice Patricia Ajuma Mahmoud, Rev. Sister Anne Abah and the late actress Ada Ameh, among others.
The Idoma Hall of Fame was established to document and preserve the achievements of distinguished Idoma people across public service, politics, law, education, business, entertainment, culture and other fields.