Chief Eleazar Chukwuemeka “Emeka” Anyaoku is a prominent Nigerian diplomat and statesman best known for serving as the first African Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations. Born in 1933 in Obosi, Anambra State, he has dedicated his life to advancing peace, democracy, and cooperation among nations. His distinguished career spans decades of service both to Nigeria and the international community, establishing him as one of Africa’s most respected global leaders.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Chief Eleazar Chukwuemeka Anyaoku |
| Date of Birth | January 18, 1933 |
| Place of Birth | Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Anambra State |
| Partner | Princess Ebunola Olubunmi Solanke (married 1962) |
| Children | Four (1 daughter: Adiba; 3 sons: Oluyemisi, Obiechina, Emenike) |
| Occupations | Diplomat, Statesman, Traditional Ruler (Ichie Adazie of Obosi), Former Commonwealth Secretary-General |
| Net Worth | Approximately $1 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Emeka Anyaoku was born in 1933 in Obosi, Anambra State, into a Christian family deeply rooted in Igbo culture. His father was a respected catechist and community leader, and his mother came from a prominent family.
Anyaoku attended primary school in Umuahia and Agbor before enrolling at Merchants of Light Secondary School, known for its discipline and academic excellence.He went on to study Classics at University College Ibadan, affiliated with the University of London, graduating in 1959 with honors.
This rigorous education laid the foundation for his future diplomatic career by sharpening his critical thinking and analytical skills.
Career
Anyaoku began his career in 1959 at the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC) in London, where he was an executive trainee.
His work brought him into contact with Nigerian leaders, leading to an encouragement from then-Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa to join Nigeria’s Foreign Service.
Joining Nigeria’s Foreign Service in 1962, Anyaoku rapidly found himself assisting key officials and participating in foundational efforts like establishing the Organization of African Unity.
His posting to Nigeria’s mission at the United Nations in New York from 1963 to 1966 marked the beginning of his international diplomatic experience.
In 1966, Anyaoku joined the Commonwealth Secretariat as Assistant Director of International Affairs. Despite initial reservations about the Commonwealth, he became a leading figure within the organization over the next three decades.
He advanced through several senior roles, including Director of International Affairs, Assistant Secretary-General, and Deputy Secretary-General.
In 1983, he briefly served as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs before the government was overthrown by a military coup. He then returned to the Commonwealth Secretariat, where, in 1989, he was elected Secretary-General—the first African to hold the post—serving two terms until 2000.
Personal Life
Anyaoku married Princess Ebunola Olubunmi Solanke, a Yoruba princess of Abeokuta royal lineage, in 1962. Their marriage symbolized unity across Nigeria’s ethnic groups.
They have four children—one daughter and three sons—who credit their father for instilling discipline, strong values, and a commitment to excellence.
Despite his demanding career, Anyaoku remained deeply connected to his family and cultural roots. He holds the traditional chieftaincy title Ichie Adazie of Obosi and was honored in 1990 by the Idemili Clan with the title Ugwumba Idemili.
His wife also holds distinguished traditional titles and has been actively engaged in welfare work.
Emeka Anyaoku Net Worth
Chief Emeka Anyaoku’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million USD. Reflecting his lifelong dedication to public service over personal wealth accumulation, his financial profile highlights his focus on integrity and service rather than material gain.
Awards and Honors
Anyaoku’s career has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:
- Order of the Supreme Companions of O.R. Tambo (Gold) from South Africa for his crucial role in supporting democracy and ending apartheid.
- Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO) awarded by the British Crown.
- Madagascar’s highest honor, Commandeur de l’Ordre National Malagasy.
- Nigeria’s highest awards including Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).
- Over 30 honorary doctorates from universities across the globe.
- Honorary memberships and leadership roles in organizations such as the Royal Commonwealth Society, the Royal African Society, the Club of Rome, and the World Wide Fund for Nature.
He also chairs prestigious African leadership award committees, continuing to influence and inspire future generations.
