Nigeria, March 11 -- A former Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dubem Onyia, is dead.

Mr Onyia died on Monday in Abuja, the family announced on Tuesday.

The former minister hailed from Ngwo, a community in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria's South-east.

He was 73 years old.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hon. Chief Dubem Onyia, a distinguished statesman and former Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs," Emeka Onyia said in a statement on behalf of the family on Tuesday.

Mr Onyia said the former minister died after a brief illness.

Continuing, he said: "Chief Onyia dedicated his life to God and public service, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria's diploma...