Amb Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie hails from a distinguished lineage of political and social leaders in Nigeria, whose legacy is marked by significant contributions to the nation’s struggle for independence and self-governance. Born in Uromi to the late Prince Albert Okojie, OON, a prominent figure and founding member of Action Group (AC) and Midwestern Democratic Front (MDF), she comes from a family deeply involved in the political landscape.
Her father, a former Member of Parliament in the Western Region, a Junior Minister, and a key player in the Midwestern region during the era of Awolowo, was also a philanthropist instrumental in the creation of Bendel State, actively advocating for its establishment and moving the motion for its formation. This historical context instilled in Ambassador Princess Asha a profound passion for humanity and a dedication to selfless service, shaping the trajectory of her own remarkable journey and commitment to public service.
Raised in Benin City, Edo State, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie embarked on her educational journey at Ebenezer Primary School and Adesuwa Grammar School in Benin City. After completing an OND program in arts at Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, Nigeria, she pursued higher education in the United States, earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Health Information Management, and MBA both from Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester, New Hampshire.
She is also, a certified Database Administrator, Data Analyst, Registered Health Information Administrator, Project Management Professional, Information Systems Auditor, Risk Management Assurance, and Professional Medical Auditor. This academic journey illustrates her commitment to personal and professional development on a global scale.
As the current CEO of AfriQtalk Consult, Ambassador Princess Asha leads a diverse company specializing in healthcare, business consultancy, investment and trade facilitation. Her leadership at AfriQtalk has been characterized by a strategic and forward-thinking approach, yielding notable achievements and impactful contributions. Ambassador Princess Asha’s leadership at AfriQtalk extends far beyond the domain of media consultancy.
Her strategic acumen has proven instrumental in establishing synergies between the public and private sectors, thereby facilitating bilateral trade and investments, contributing significantly to economic development, including leading people and management of Fortune 500 organizations in the U.S. This approach not only strengthens bilateral relationships between U.S and Africa but also serves as a driving force for the formulation and implementation of policies aligned with organization’s mission and vision, environmental sustainability, diplomatic, cultural, and economic objectives.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie envisions a transformative future for Edo State as its first female governor. Her comprehensive agenda addresses a wide range of critical issues, aimed at creating a more inclusive, prosperous, and progressive Edo State. Her vision encompasses economic development, education, women's empowerment, infrastructure, healthcare, cultural heritage preservation, good governance, security, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Some of the key elements of her vision include:
In various executive and leadership roles, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie has made a positive impact, leveraging her visionary leadership skills, strategic thinking, and effective communication to guide organizations toward success. Her leadership qualities encompass a wide range of the following key attributes:
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie's extensive network, well-established partnerships, ongoing collaborations, and strategic alliances span diverse sectors and stakeholders. These connections include:
In her capacity as the Vice President of the Ivorian-Nigeria Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie has actively participated in fact-finding investment missions and trade facilitation initiatives across Africa, with a special focus on advocating against human trafficking. By strengthening economic ties and fostering cooperation, she contributes significantly to creating a conducive environment for mutually beneficial business opportunities between these two nations.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie's commitment to eradicating poverty, hunger, and illiteracy in Nigeria reflects her dedication to creating positive change in broader societal contexts. Her multifaceted approach, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to service make her a powerful force for transformation and progress in Edo State and beyond. Her platform, InvestEdo, serves as a catalyst for creating awareness to empower the people of Edo State.
By addressing the root causes of poverty, she envisions a transformative future for the state as she bids for the office of the governorship in 2024. Her commitment to promoting sustainable trade practices and addressing social issues reflects her dedication to fostering positive diplomatic and economic relations, mutually beneficial relationships and engaging in dynamic, collaborative initiatives, has positioned her as a visionary leader with a comprehensive vision for positive change and sustainable development.
Ambassador Princess Asha's leadership in establishing the US-Nigeria Legislatives and Executive Forum has created a valuable space for collaboration and idea exchange. Her vision goes beyond diplomatic ties; it encompasses the empowerment of communities through enhanced governance, increased bilateral trade and investment, innovation, and a shared commitment to security. Through this forum, she continues to catalyze positive change and build bridges that foster enduring partnerships for the benefit of all involved.
Beyond her involvement in the US-Nigeria Legislatives and Executive Forum, Ambassador Princess Asha also the Initiator of FACE Honors and Global Leadership Initiatives. This cultural organization is dedicated to recognizing outstanding individuals across various fields, including the global economy, entertainment, sports, culture, arts, good governance, education, research, and philanthropy. Notably, both events are held bi-yearly and are conducted together.
The initiatives led by Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie have recognized and honored individuals of exceptional merit, acknowledging their outstanding services, unwavering commitments, dedicated contributions, profound passion, and influential impact. Among the distinguished honorees are luminaries who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields. Some of the esteemed honorees are:
A trailblazer in revolutionizing traditional television news and entertainment, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie has etched an indelible mark on the media landscape. Leveraging her online talk show and blog, she wielded powerful tools to amplify awareness of African cultures, entertainment, music, ideological diversity, and entrepreneurial innovation. Notably, she stands out as one of the early promoters in the diaspora, harnessing her extensive network to propel African music and films from Africa to the United States, garnering global recognition and visibility.
In 2018, her dedication to cultural promotion earned her a notable recognition. Nominated as the diaspora cultural ambassador for the United States by Hon. Osaze Osemwegie Ero, former commissioner of the Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Princess Asha was acknowledged for her role in enhancing cultural understanding.
Beyond entertainment, her advocacy extends to the promotion of African arts and culture. Ambassador Princess Asha is a vocal proponent for addressing critical issues such as the repatriation of stolen artifacts and the restoration of heritage sites in Africa. Her dedication to these causes reflects a deep commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the continent.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie's journey as a media innovator and cultural ambassador exemplifies her commitment to showcasing the diversity and richness of African heritage. Her relentless efforts in breaking new ground, fostering global recognition for African talents, and advocating for cultural preservation make her a driving force in bridging gaps and fostering a deeper appreciation for the African Diasporas on the world stage.
Ambassador Princess Asha actively supports research into traditional alternative treatments for sickle cell disease in Africa. Her compassionate initiatives extend to sickle cell sufferers, orphanages, providing financial assistance to sick patients, offering nutrition and medical care to pregnant women, and patients who cannot afford to pay their hospital bills, providing tuition assistance to underprivileged children in Edo State.
Her advocacy for gender equity, and dedication to the welfare of marginalized and disenfranchised groups, empowering women, children, and youth have earned her recognition both locally and internationally. In 2023 The National Union of Journalists, Edo State, acknowledged her contribution to humanity.
In 2017, she was conferred UN Ambassador for her humanitarian efforts, under the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), a testament to her commitment to charitable efforts. In 2018 she was honored as International Person of the Year. In 2015 she was received the Diaspora Award of Excellence. In 2014, she received recognition from Stanford Who’s Who, and Nigerian Promoters Media Personality of the Year in 2012, among others.
Before venturing into politics herself, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie demonstrated her dedication to addressing critical issues through involvement in various organizations and advisory committees. Playing a crucial role behind the scenes in multiple political campaigns in Edo State, she actively contributed to shaping the political landscape.
Her advocacy also extends to empowering the youth in her community. She has been a steadfast supporter of young individuals aspiring to hold local and state offices, actively participating in various initiatives to nurture the next generation of leaders. Her commitment to voter sensitization and education for numerous elections ensures that citizens are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities in the democratic process.
Furthermore, she has tirelessly worked alongside grassroots organizations, enlisting them as invaluable observers in the voting process, thus upholding the integrity of elections and bolstering public trust in the democratic system.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s active involvement, leadership, strategic vision and affiliation in the following organizations show her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact:
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie’s family lineage is rooted in a rich and storied history that can be traced back to Oba Ewuare I Ogidigan, the great king of the Benin Empire. Her grandfather, King Ogbidi Okojie, the 12th king of the Uromi dynasty, is a direct descendant of Ijesan, the first son of Oba Ewuare I who left the Benin kingdom to become the first monarch of Uromi in 14700 AD. King Ogbidi Okojie’s remarkable courage and resistance against British control during the colonial era left an indelible impact on Uromi, contributing to Uromi’s sovereignty, preservation of culture and traditions.
This historical connection intricately weaves Ambassador Princess Asha’s roots into the royal family of both the Benin kingdom and the Uromi dynasty. Her familial ties establish her as a bona fide Edo Princess with a profound historical bond to the people of Edo, embodying the resilience, courage, and commitment to service that characterize her family’s legacy.
Amb Princess Asha’s cousin, late Chief Anthony Enahoro, played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s self-government movement. As a prominent nationalist and politician, he was instrumental in the fight for Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. His significant contributions to the nation’s political landscape earned him a place in history as one of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
Her cousin, Cardinal Anthony Olubunmi Okogie, who holds the distinction of being the first Esan Catholic Cardinal in Nigeria, whose spiritual leadership, activism for justice, social equity, and human rights, and dedication to his faith, have influenced and inspired many shaping the religious landscape of Nigeria. His unwavering dedication to addressing societal issues has positioned him as a respected voice in the broader Nigerian context.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie’s lineage instills values that go beyond personal convictions, fostering a deep commitment to serving her people. This commitment is rooted in a genuine desire to honor the principles and traditions passed down through generations. Willingly embracing the significant role of bridging tradition and modernity, she recognizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage while navigating the complexities of contemporary governance.
For her, running for the governorship office is a call to duty, not merely a personal endeavor but a reflection of her understanding of the changing times and evolving needs of the people of Edo. Her commitment to leading Edo State toward a new order through the spirit of nationhood reflects her dedication to the well being of the people of Edo by integrating Afrocentric ideology for good governance.
Fondly known as Ine Edo (Mother of Edo), Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie cultivated a deep understanding of the challenges confronting ordinary individuals in her community. Her personal experiences and strong ties with the local population have provided her with valuable insights into their needs and aspirations.
At the core of her philanthropic mission lies this profound understanding, as she endeavors to eliminate hunger, poverty, and illiteracy in Edo State. Her vision includes building a thriving middle class through comprehensive reforms, infrastructural development, and diversification of economies, manufacturing, skills acquisitions, and self-sufficiency.
By embracing the responsibilities passed down through generations, Princess Asha aims to contribute to the progress, development, and positive transformation of Edo State. Her approach involves addressing contemporary challenges while drawing on the wisdom of tradition and Afrocentric ideology. Poised to break the glass ceiling, she brings a unique blend of cultural heritage, modern perspectives, and a dedication to fostering positive change.
Her multifaceted background, emotional intelligence, technical, hard and soft skills, coupled with her transformational leadership and strategic planning abilities, form a formidable combination. Her commitment to excellence, coupled with the ability to inspire positive change and address societal issues, positions her as a visionary leader capable of making a lasting impact on the lives of those underserved and underprivileged in our society.
Her credibility and international influences stand as significant assets, adding considerable value to her candidacy. With a track record that extends beyond local borders, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie brings with her a wealth of experience and connections that can garner support not only from indigenes in the diaspora but also from the broader international community.
This global perspective positions her to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of the people of Edo State. The potential for collaboration with international partners opens up opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and educational advancements. Through her international network, she can attract investments that would contribute to the state's progress and prosperity.
If elected to office, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie has the potential to transform Edo State into a beacon of progress and prosperity. Her ability to engage with the investors, entrepreneurs, international and business community could pave the way for diverse investment opportunities and development initiatives. This not only enhances the state's economic landscape but also strengthens its position on the global stage, fostering a climate of growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
Ambassador Princess Asha okojie-Odigie is happily married with five grown up boys. In her free time, she enjoys mentoring young women, men, and girls, writing motivational quotes, and traveling. Her commitment to family values, faith in God, and empathy for humanity serves as the driving force behind her work, keeping her focused and motivated.
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