Betta Edu Biography, Age, Persoanl Life, Education, Political Career, Controversy

Betta Edu Biography, Early Life & Education

The renowned Nigerian politician Dr. Betta Chimaobim Edu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on October 27, 1986, to stay-at-home mom and Mr. Emmanuel Eke. Twin Betta remembers her childhood in London, where she attended free basic education until she was eight years old. Her early years were defined by a reliable transportation system and a functioning health system, despite the difficulties posed by the cold.

After the family moved back to Nigeria, Betta finished her early schooling at Charles Walker International Nursery and Primary School, where she earned her Common Entrance and First School Leaving Certificate in 1995. After that, she went to the Federal Government Girls College in Calabar, where in 2001 she graduated with a certificate from the West African Examination Council (WAEC).

In 2009, she graduated with a degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBCh) from the University of Calabar as a result of her pursuit of further education. Dr. Edu completed her studies by earning a Master of Science in Public Health in Developing Countries from Texila American University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Health for Developing Countries from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and a Doctor of Public Health from Texila American University.

Betta Edu Personal Life

At 37 years old, Betta Edu is a married mother of two kids. She has maintained her family life private in spite of her public persona. She enjoys a life outside of politics with her spouse, a friend from her school days.

Betta Edu Political Journey

Dr. Linda Ayade, a close friend and medical colleague of the former Cross River governor, was the one who masterminded Dr. Edu’s political debut. After becoming a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), she rose to fame in 2015 when Benedict Ayade, the executive governor of Cross River State, selected her as his youngest-ever Special Adviser on Community and Primary Healthcare.

Betta Edu also changed parties in 2021 after Ayade defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 2020 saw her continue to rise in politics when she became the chairperson of the Cross River State COVID-19 Taskforce. She was appointed National Chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum a month later.

Her dedication and leadership qualities were recognized in March 2022 when she was appointed the National Women’s Leader of the APC. This marked a significant milestone as she became the youngest person to hold this position.

Betta Edu Controversy

On January 8, 2024, Betta Edu’s political career took a blow when she was suspended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu due to a N585 million controversy. Her already remarkable career gained a difficult chapter due to the controversies surrounding her ban.

Betta Edu Ministerial Appointment

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu put Betta Edu’s name on the list of 28 ministry nominees, her political career took a fresh turn in spite of the scandal. On July 27, 2023, Senate President Godswill Akpabio received the nomination from Tinubu’s chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. On August 21, 2023, she was sworn in as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation shortly after.

Betta Edu Legacy

Betta Edu’s life story reflects resilience, dedication, and a commitment to public service. Her journey from a medical practitioner to a prominent political figure mirrors her pursuit of contributing positively to the welfare of her community and nation. Despite the controversies, she remains a notable personality in Nigerian politics, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape.