Dame Virginia Ngozi Etiaba was born on 11 November 1942 in Nnewi, Anambra State, a community known for its commitment to industry, education, and civic responsibility. Growing up in such an environment shaped her values of discipline, community mindedness, and public service. These values formed the foundation of a life devoted to teaching and leadership.
Etiaba trained formally as a teacher during the era when educators played a central role in Nigerian communities. Teachers served not only as academic guides but also as moral models, administrators, and community representatives. Her training equipped her with a strong understanding of discipline, organisation, and human management, qualities that would define her professional journey.
She served in several Nigerian towns such as Kafanchan in Kaduna State, Aba in Abia State, and Port Harcourt in Rivers State before returning to Nnewi. Her long career in education spanned more than three decades, during which she worked as a classroom teacher and later as a headmistress. Her experiences across different regions of the country broadened her exposure to diverse cultures and administrative environments.
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Building an Educational Legacy
After retiring from the civil service in 1991, Etiaba channelled her lifelong commitment to education into establishing the Bennet Etiaba Memorial Schools in Nnewi. The institution was named in honour of her late husband, Bennet Etiaba. As proprietor, she oversaw the academic framework and administrative structure of the school, ensuring that its standards reflected her longstanding dedication to quality education.
Her work in the school sector strengthened her reputation as a disciplined administrator and community leader. These qualities would later influence her unexpected rise to one of the highest political offices in the state.
The Transition into Anambra Politics
In 2006, Dame Virginia Etiaba entered the political landscape when she became the deputy to Peter Obi under the All Progressives Grand Alliance. Her appointment emerged during a politically tense period in Anambra State, marked by power struggles and disputes surrounding electoral processes. Despite not being a long standing political figure, her administrative discipline and community standing made her a strong choice for the role of Deputy Governor.
She assumed office in March 2006, standing beside Governor Peter Obi as his administration navigated complex political challenges. During this time, she performed her constitutional duties and contributed to the administrative stability of the state.
Ascending to History as Nigeria’s First Female Governor
On 3 November 2006, the Anambra State House of Assembly impeached Governor Peter Obi following allegations brought before the legislature. According to Nigeria’s constitution, the Deputy Governor assumes office when the sitting governor is removed. Following this procedure, Virginia Ngozi Etiaba was sworn in as Governor of Anambra State.
With her swearing in, she became the first woman in Nigerian history to occupy the office of a state governor. Her rise to the governorship was a significant moment for women in leadership, representing a remarkable shift in the political history of the nation. It was a period that placed her at the centre of national attention, highlighting her calm professionalism and steady commitment to constitutional order.
Her time as governor lasted a little over three months, a period in which she prioritised continuity of governance while the legal challenge to Obi’s removal proceeded. Available public records indicate that her leadership focused on stability and the maintenance of ongoing administrative processes during this transitional moment.
Returning Power with Honour
On 9 February 2007, the Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu nullified the impeachment of Peter Obi and declared him the rightful governor of Anambra State. Immediately after the ruling, Dame Etiaba returned executive powers to Obi without resistance or hesitation. Her swift and orderly handover was praised for demonstrating respect for legal authority and the rule of law.
Her decision to step aside willingly reinforced her reputation as a leader guided by principle rather than personal ambition. After the transition, she continued her service to society away from the political spotlight.
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Life Beyond Government
Following the end of her tenure, Etiaba did not seek further elective office. Public records indicate that she chose to return to private life and community roles. Her legacy remains grounded in education, leadership through service, and adherence to constitutional duty. She is also remembered for playing a pivotal role in Nigerian history as the first woman to govern a state.
Her life story reflects the possibility of leadership emerging from unexpected places and demonstrates that dedication to service can create lasting national impact.
Author’s Note
Dame Virginia Ngozi Etiaba’s rise to the governorship was not driven by political ambition but by a lifetime of service, discipline, and readiness to uphold constitutional responsibility. Her story is a powerful reminder that leadership is not always about seeking power but about answering duty when the moment calls, and doing so with honour, stability, and respect for lawful process. Her example continues to inspire women and young leaders across Nigeria who see in her journey a testament to what dedication and integrity can achieve.
References
Biographical records of Dame Virginia Ngozi Etiaba
Court of Appeal judgement on the reinstatement of Governor Peter Obi
Public archives on the Anambra State governorship transition of 2006 to 2007
