Proud Son of Nzerem Okue Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, Ebonyi State
Dr. Geoffrey Ijomah David Chima is a distinguished diplomat, accomplished scholar, and one of Ebonyi State’s finest exports to the global stage. Born on 26th September 1969 in Nzerem Okue, Ishiagu, Ivo LGA, he has risen through the ranks of Nigeria’s diplomatic corps with uncommon brilliance, discipline, and unwavering patriotism. Today, he stands tall as an Ambassador-Designate—an honour earned through decades of excellence in service to the nation.
Early Life and Education
From his humble beginnings in Nzerem Community School, Ishiagu, where he completed his First School Leaving Certificate in 1979, Dr. Chima’s journey has been defined by courage, curiosity, and a hunger for knowledge. He proceeded to Government Secondary School, Okposi, obtaining his WAEC certificate in 1984.
With an uncommon drive for academic distinction, he furthered his studies across some of the most respected institutions in Nigeria and abroad, earning:
B.A in Theatre/Communication Arts – University of Calabar (1990–1995)
Professional PG Certificate in International Relations, Diplomacy & International Law – Nigeria Foreign Service Academy, Lagos (1998–1999)
Master’s in International Affairs & Diplomacy – Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (2006–2007)
PGD in Development Policy & Administration – IDAN, Abuja (2007–2008)
PhD in Political Science & International Relations – Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok, Thailand (2011–2016)
His educational laurels reflect both depth and diversity—qualities that continue to shape his global diplomatic engagements.
A Distinguished Diplomatic Career
Dr. Geoffrey Ijomah David Chima joined the Nigerian Foreign Service in October 1997. Over the years, he has built an admirable career marked by integrity, professionalism, and exceptional representation of Nigeria’s interests across nations.
He has served in multiple continents—Africa, Europe, and Asia—promoting Nigeria’s image, protecting her nationals, and strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations. His diplomatic postings and leadership roles include:
Minister/Head, Consular & Immigration Section – Embassy of Nigeria, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (March 2023 – Date)
Deputy Director, Consular & Legal Department – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja (2020–2023)
Minister/Head, Consular & Immigration Section – Embassy of Nigeria, Madrid, Spain (2017–2020)
Assistant Director, Training & Staff Welfare – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja (2016–2017)
Chief Foreign Service Officer – Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2013–2015)
Senior Consular/Economic Desk Officer – Embassy of Nigeria, Bangkok, Thailand (2010–2013)
Counsellor, East & Central Africa Division – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja (2005–2010)
Second Secretary/Counsellor & Protocol Officer – Nigeria High Commission, Nairobi, Kenya (2000–2004)
Third Secretary (seconded) – Office of the National Security Adviser, State House Annex (1999–2000)
Through each role, Dr. Chima earned a reputation for excellence, diplomacy, cultural intelligence, and deep commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad.
A Scholar, Gentleman, and Global Citizen
Beyond his diplomatic footprint, Dr. Chima is an avid writer, a lover of music, and a man who values meaningful social connections with family, friends, and colleagues. His hobbies reflect a balanced personality—intellectual yet warm, disciplined yet approachable.
Family Life
A devoted family man, Dr. Geoffrey Ijomah David Chima is happily married with children, and credits his family as the foundation of his strength and motivation.
*Legacy and Inspiration*
Dr. Chima’s life story is a testament to resilience, discipline, and the possibilities that lie ahead when passion meets purpose. From the serene community of Nzerem Okue Ishiagu to global diplomatic platforms, he remains a beacon of pride to Ivo LGA, Ebonyi State, and Nigeria at large.
His elevation as Ambassador-Designate stands as a well-deserved crown to an illustrious career—and a call to even greater national service.
As written by Mr Isaac Igwe Ochor and Hon. Orji Donatus Christian
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