This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (September 2022) |
Michael Iheonukara Okpara | |
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Premier of Eastern Nigeria | |
In office 1 October 1959 – 15 January 1966 | |
Preceded by | Nnamdi Azikiwe |
Succeeded by | Position abolished |
Personal details | |
Born | 25 December 1920 Umuahia, Southern Region, British Nigeria |
Died | 17 December 1984 | (aged 63)
Political party | National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons |
Spouse | Adanma Enyidiya Okpara |
Children | Nnawuihe Okpara, Uzodinma Okpara, Chinyere Okpara, Enyinna Okpara, Ugonwa Okpara, Ijeoma Okpara |
Profession | Medical Doctor, Politician |
Michael Iheonukara Okpara // (25 December 1920 – 17 December 1984) was a Nigerian politician and Premier of Eastern Nigeria during the First Republic, from 1959 to 1966.[1] At 39, he was the nation's youngest premier. He was a strong advocate of what he called "pragmatic socialism" and believed that agricultural reform was crucial to the ultimate success of Nigeria.[2]