Ohuabunwa Mao Arukwe

Mao Arukwe Ohuabunwa (born 24 May 1957) is a Nigerian politician, businessman, and former Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly. He was previously a Member of the House of Representatives from Arochukwu/Ohafia constituency of Abia State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) between 1999 and 2007.

Initially affiliated with the United National Congress Party (UNCP) in 1997, he contested and was elected as a member of the House of Representatives in 1998, though the electoral process was interrupted. His dedication to public service led him to contest again under the PDP in 1999, where he won. During his tenure (1999–2007), he served as Deputy House Leader and led the South East caucus.

He sponsored numerous bills that became laws, earning respect for his commitment to nation-building. Respected for his sincerity, he held key roles such as Chairman for Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Security in the ECOWAS Parliament from 2001 to 2003, and Treasurer from 2004 to 2007. He also chaired NEPAD from 2015 to 2019.

Born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to parents from Atani in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, Mao Arukwe attended Oro-evo State School for primary education and Enitona High School, Borokiri, for senior school. He earned an HND and BTech in Applied Biology and Microbiology from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, followed by a PGD and MSc in Public Administration and Human Resources Management from Enugu State University of Science and Technology. He later obtained a PhD in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.