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Ngozi Nma Odu

Ngozi Nma Odu, a distinguished Nigerian politician and esteemed professor of microbiology, currently holds the prestigious position of deputy governor of Rivers State. Her illustrious career and remarkable achievements have earned her widespread acclaim and admiration.

Born on October 19, 1952, in the Egi clan of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria, Odu’s journey to prominence is marked by academic excellence and dedicated service. She earned her first degree in microbiology from Paisley College of Technology in Renfrewshire, Scotland, where she garnered accolades, including the Best Academic Prize for two consecutive years in 1977 and 1978. Subsequently, she pursued a Master’s degree in Food Science and Management from the University of London (Queen Elizabeth College) in 1983, followed by a groundbreaking PhD in microbiology from the University of Port Harcourt in 1989, making her the first PhD graduate in the department.

Odu’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident in her attendance at a Leadership course at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, USA, in 2005. Her expertise and leadership abilities were further honed during her tenure as permanent secretary in the Rivers State Ministry of Health from 1999 to 2006. In January 2006, she was appointed as the Rivers State Commissioner of Education by the former governor, Peter Odili, where she made significant contributions to the advancement of education in the state.

Throughout her career, Odu has served as a lecturer in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Port Harcourt, demonstrating her passion for education and knowledge dissemination. She also played a pivotal role as the first Acting Executive Director of the University of Port Harcourt Foundation and continues to make valuable contributions as a visiting professor at Rivers State University.

In recognition of her exemplary leadership and dedication to public service, Odu was nominated as the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2023 Rivers State gubernatorial election. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people have undoubtedly positioned her as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the citizens of Rivers State.

As the deputy governor-elect, Odu brings with her a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and a deep-rooted passion for the development and progress of Rivers State. Her visionary leadership and tireless dedication to advancing the state’s interests are evident in her role as the Director of Academic Planning at Pamo University of Medical Sciences in Rivers State before her election. Odu’s remarkable journey from academia to politics underscores her versatility, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Her leadership qualities and outstanding contributions to various sectors, including education and healthcare, have earned her the trust and confidence of the people of Rivers State. As she assumes her role as deputy governor, Odu’s steadfast dedication to promoting progress, inclusivity, and excellence will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the state’s development trajectory.

In celebrating Ngozi Nma Odu’s remarkable achievements and contributions to Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole, she embodies the values of integrity, excellence, and service. Her leadership serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for future generations, and her commitment to driving positive change will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Rivers State for years to come.

Natasha Hadiza Akpoti

Natasha Hadiza Akpoti, a distinguished Nigerian barrister, social entrepreneur, and politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in her quest for positive change and representation. Her notable foray into politics began with her candidacy for the post of Senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 2019 elections, running under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Subsequently, she also contested in the 2019 Kogi State Gubernatorial Election, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving her community and driving meaningful change.

Born on December 9, 1979, Natasha is the daughter of a Nigerian father and a Ukrainian mother, and she is the second of four children. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her father in 1998, Natasha remained resolute in her pursuit of academic excellence and professional achievement. She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Abuja and was called to the Nigerian bar in 2005. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further studies at the University of Dundee, where she obtained a Master of Laws degree in 2012, followed by a Master of Business Administration in Oil & Gas Management from the same institution.

Natasha’s commitment to public service and community development is underscored by her founding of the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP), which aims to drive sustainable development and empowerment initiatives. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and social justice.

Despite facing political challenges, Natasha’s resilience and determination have been evident. Despite stiff competition in the 2023 Kogi Centre Senatorial Elections, she emerged victorious in the PDP primaries, highlighting her widespread support and appeal among constituents. Following a rigorous legal battle, she was rightfully declared the winner of the Kogi Central Senatorial Election, showcasing her steadfast commitment to democratic principles and justice.

Natasha’s triumph is not only a personal victory but also a win for the people she represents. Her dedication to serving her community, coupled with her visionary leadership and unwavering integrity, makes her a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring leaders and change-makers across Nigeria. As a mother of three, Natasha’s passion for creating a better future for the next generation fuels her relentless pursuit of excellence and service to humanity.

MaryAnne Iwara

In her role as Senior Research Fellow and Programme Officer, MaryAnne was instrumental to the establishment of Nigeria’s foremost civilian peacebuilding training Centre, while supporting the development of research and policy solutions in the areas of capacity building for peace and preventing and countering violent extremism in Africa. She has also gained extensive experience as a peacebuilder notably working with impacted groups and populations, including ex-associates of Boko Haram, and returning communities, while designing policy recommendations for different levels of actors on the reinsertion and reintegration of vulnerable groups and communities.

Her career in Peace and Security in Africa spans almost two decades, with experience at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, the Nigerian Institute for Peace, and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), the German Agency for International Cooperation GmbH (GIZ) in Ghana, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in Abuja, Nigeria.

MaryAnne has a BA in History and International Studies, an MA in African Peace and Conflict Studies, and is a final year PhD Candidate at the University of Leipzig, Germany. Miss Iwara is also a Mo Ibrahim African Leaders Fellows, and a recipient of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) Jennings Randolph Senior Fellowship and the Policy Leaders Fellowship from the School of Transitional Governance (STG) of the European University Institute (EUI).

Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure

Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, an exemplary leader, currently serves as the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to public service and educational advancement.

Born on January 15, 1978, in Bunkure town of Kano State, Bunkure’s educational journey reflects her passion for knowledge and excellence. She attended Bunkure Primary School for her formative years and continued her education at Government Girls Science Secondary School Garko, laying the foundation for her remarkable career.

Bunkure’s academic prowess continued as she pursued her IJMB at the College of Art and Remedial Studies Kano State, followed by a medical degree from Bayero University Kano in 2005. Her medical journey further flourished through her residency at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, where she attained membership in the West African College of Physicians and excelled as a consultant family physician.

In her role as the Honorable Commissioner for Higher Education in Kano State, Bunkure’s proactive leadership during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic exemplified her dedication to the welfare and educational development of the citizens. Her efforts, including the timely reopening of state-owned tertiary education institutions, underscore her visionary leadership and tireless advocacy for progress.

As the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Bunkure continues to leverage her expertise and passion for public service to drive positive change and development in Nigeria. Her commitment to education and empowerment remains unwavering, making her a beacon of inspiration for future generations.

Kaletapwa Farauta

Kaletapwa George Farauta, a distinguished Nigerian professor and seasoned politician, currently serves as the Deputy Governor of Adamawa State, showcasing her exemplary leadership and commitment to public service.

Born on November 28, 1965, in Numan Local Government of Adamawa State, Farauta’s educational journey began with her primary schooling at Numan II Primary School, where she displayed exceptional academic aptitude. She continued her education at the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC) Yola, graduating with her Senior School Certificate in 1983. Her passion for education led her to pursue her National Certificate in Education at the Federal College of Education (FCE) Yola in 1987.

Farauta’s academic achievements continued with her first and second degrees in Agricultural Extension from the University of Nigeria Nsukka in 1989 and 1995, respectively. Her quest for knowledge culminated in the attainment of her PhD from the Federal University of Technology, now known as Modibbo Adama Federal University of Technology, Yola.

Throughout her career, Farauta has held various key positions in the educational sector, including serving as the Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (ADSUBEB) and as the Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education in Adamawa State. Her dedication and outstanding contributions to the advancement of education in the state earned her the role of acting Vice Chancellor at Adamawa State University in 2017, which was later confirmed by the state government.

Farauta’s leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to the development of education have made her a beacon of inspiration in Adamawa State and beyond. Her visionary leadership and tireless efforts continue to positively impact the educational landscape of the state, paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.

Ireti Heebah Kingibe

Ireti Heebah Kingibe, a distinguished civil engineer and esteemed politician, has made significant strides in both her professional and political endeavors, embodying a commitment to public service and community development.

Her educational journey began at Emotan Preparatory School and continued through Queen’s College Lagos and Washington Irving High School. She later pursued a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota, laying a solid foundation for her future career.

With her academic credentials in hand, Kingibe embarked on a fruitful career in engineering, starting as a Quality Control Engineer and later assuming roles of increasing responsibility both in Nigeria and abroad. She worked with esteemed organizations such as Bradley Precast Concrete Inc., the Minnesota Department of Transportation Design unit, and the Nigerian Air Force base in Ikeja. Her expertise in planning and engineering earned her recognition as a regional engineer for Lodigiani Nigeria Limited Lagos.

In the political arena, Kingibe’s journey began in 1990 when she was appointed as an Adviser to the National Chairman of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). Demonstrating her dedication to grassroots development, she later joined the Labour Party. In the 2023 Nigerian Senate elections, she successfully contested the FCT Senatorial seat under the Labour party, winning with a promise to allocate her basic salary to address infrastructural deficits in rural communities within the nation’s capital.

As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs in the 10th Senate, Kingibe continues to champion the rights and welfare of women, showcasing her commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

Kingibe’s illustrious career and unwavering dedication to public service make her a beacon of inspiration and a true asset to Nigerian society. Her contributions to engineering and politics underscore her commitment to positively impacting her community and the nation.

Ipalibo Harry Banigo

Ipalibo Harry Banigo, born on December 20, 1952, in Obuama, Degema, Rivers State, hails from the esteemed Harry family. During her formative years, she displayed remarkable academic prowess, earning accolades such as the West African School Certificate (Division One) and the Higher School Certificate at Queens College, Lagos. Notably, her exceptional performance in Chemistry, Biology, and English Literature earned her recognition, including the BBC award for Students Poetry in 1968.

Banigo’s academic journey continued with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from the University College Hospital, Ibadan, followed by a master’s degree from Harvard University School of Public Health. She furthered her education with diplomas in Tropical Hygiene and Dermatology from the University of London between 1990 and 1992.

Her distinguished professional career began at the Rivers State Port Health Service, where she served as Registrar of Births and Senior Medical Officer-in-charge. Throughout her career, she held various esteemed positions, including honorary consultant dermatologist at the University of Port Harcourt and principal of Rivers State School of Health Technology in 1985. Within the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Banigo assumed several roles, including Director of Public Health Services, Acting Commissioner, Director-General, and Permanent Secretary. She served as Secretary to the Government of Rivers State from October 5, 1995, until July 5, 1999, concurrently acting as Head of Service from May 1998 for five months.

Even after retirement, Banigo remained actively engaged, providing professional services as the Public Health Adviser of the Shell Petroleum Development Company in Nigeria. She held executive roles at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and served as a member of various committees and boards, including the Governing Council of the University of Calabar and the Rivers State Food and Nutrition Committee.

In December 2014, Banigo was selected as the running mate of gubernatorial candidate Ezenwo Wike in the 2015 election. Following their successful election, they assumed office on May 29, 2015, with Banigo serving as the 6th and first female Deputy Governor of Rivers State.

Her dedication to public health was further evidenced by her participation as a Health Consultant at a colloquium organized by St Racheal’s Pharmaceuticals Nigeria in April 2021, where she shared strategies for achieving a Zero-Malaria environment in Nigeria. Additionally, she was appointed as the Chairperson of a seven-man panel inaugurated by Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike on September 20, 2020, tasked with revitalizing moribund health facilities in the state.

Through her extensive contributions to public health and governance, Banigo has established herself as a respected leader and advocate for the welfare of the people of Rivers State. Her unwavering commitment to public service and her significant accomplishments continue to inspire positive change and progress in the region.

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, a Nigerian politician and businesswoman, served as the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) from December 1, 2020, until May 27, 2021. Following a redeployment announced by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, she assumed the role of Honourable Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons.

Raised in Abuja, Nigeria, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim attended various educational institutions, including Aruwa Nursery School, Jabi Primary School (now LEA Primary School, Jabi), and Federal Government Girls College, Bwari, Abuja. At 19, she earned a sociology degree from the University of Abuja, followed by two master’s degrees from Webster University at the age of 21. She completed her National Youth Service Corps at the NNPC Kaduna zonal office.

Starting her career at Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS), Sulaiman-Ibrahim later worked in human resources, business, and management in the United Kingdom. She became a certified SAP HCM consultant and held positions at Mary Kay, where she eventually became a senior sales director. She also served as a special adviser on strategic communication to the Minister of State for Education and was appointed as a member of the Nasarawa State Economic Advisory Council by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State in September 2019.

In addition to her previous roles, Sulaiman-Ibrahim served as the Director-General of NAPTIP for six months before assuming her current position as the Honourable Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons on June 4, 2021. She was later appointed as the State Minister of Police Affairs in July 2023.

Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu

Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, previously known as Claudiana Ibijoke Carrena, was born on January 8, 1967, in Popo Aguda, Lagos Island, Nigeria. She presently serves as the First Lady of Lagos State, married to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu earned her MBBS degree from the University of Lagos Akoka, Yaba campus. She pursued further education, attaining qualifications including a post-graduate diploma in Hospital and Health Management (PGDHM), a Diploma in Anesthesia (DA), a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH), and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA).

Over 25 years, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu devoted herself to public service in the Lagos State Government. Progressing in the medical sector, she held esteemed roles as Chief Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer at Harvey Road Comprehensive Health Centre in Yaba, later serving at the General Hospital in Somolu.

Additionally, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu is acclaimed for her tireless advocacy for the rights of women and children, showcasing her dedication to societal welfare and empowerment.

As the First Lady of Lagos State, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu continues to leverage her extensive experience in public health and her passion for societal welfare to champion initiatives that improve the lives of Lagosians, particularly women and children. Her dedication to public service and advocacy for health and empowerment make her an invaluable asset to the state and an inspiration to many.

Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejocha

Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejocha, born on November 23, 1969, is a distinguished Nigerian politician renowned for her impactful leadership in the Federal House of Representatives. Representing the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, she actively engages in parliamentary activities, advocating for significant national reforms and welfare enhancements for the populace.

Onyejocha’s legislative prowess shines through her sponsorship of bills and motions aimed at protecting citizens’ rights and promoting their well-being. In 2017, she demonstrated her commitment to public health by spearheading legislation ensuring prompt medical attention for gunshot victims, a testament to her compassion and dedication to saving lives. Additionally, her bold stance during the 2019 elections, advocating for equitable power distribution, reflects her unwavering commitment to fairness and inclusivity in governance.

Onyejocha’s extensive political experience, including her past roles as Executive Transition Chairman and Commissioner, underscores her profound dedication to public service and her exceptional leadership qualities. She continues to inspire with her tireless efforts towards building a better and more equitable Nigeria.

As the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Onyejocha brings her wealth of experience and dedication to the forefront, championing policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing labour rights, promoting employment opportunities, and fostering economic growth in Nigeria. Her unwavering commitment to the welfare of Nigerian citizens continues to drive positive change and progress in the country.

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