CHief Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria

Justice Katsina-Alu has been a Justice of the Court since 1998. He is also a member of the English Bar and Nigerian Bar Associations.

His Lordship was trained in the Armed Forces. He attended the Nigerian Military Training College, Kaduna in 1962. He thereafter proceeded to the Mons Military Training College Aldershot, England from 1962-63. He was called to the English Bar in October 1967 and returned home to attend the Nigerian Law School from 1967-68 where he was called to the Nigerian Bar. His rise saw him to the highest pinnacle of the Bench as Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1998 where he had distinguished himself by the judicial activist bend of his illuminating and courageous judgments. With the retirement of the erstwhile CJN, Idris Legbo Kutigi, President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua nominated his Lordship Katsina-Alu as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria.

henry odein ajumogobia

NIgerian Minister for Foreign Affairs

Henry Odein Ajumogobia was appointed Nigerian minister of Foreign Affairs on 6 April 2010, when Acting President Goodluck Jonathan announced his new cabinet.

In August 1983 Ajumogobia entered a partnership with Christopher Nonyelum Okeke, the basis for the legal firm of Ajumogobia and Okeke. Ajumogobia became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2003, and was appointed Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice for Rivers State in 2003. In this role, he began serious talks with rebel groups in the oil-producing area, including the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, and in June 2007 played a key role in negotiating the release of kidnapped workers of the South Korean contracting company Daewoo.

Ajumogobia was appointed Nigeria's Minister of State for Petroleum in July 2007, in which position he pushed for deregulation of the downstream sector of the oil industry.[1] He said that deregulation would eliminate shortages of petroleum products while saving taxpayers over N687 billion in annual subsidies.

shamsudeen usman

NIgerian Minister for National Planning

Shamsuddeen Usman (born 18 September 1949 in Garangamawa area of Kano, Nigeria) is the Minister of National Planning, Chairman of the Steering Committee on Nigeria Vision 2020 and immediate past Finance Minister of Nigeria. He is an Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and a Member of the Federal Executive Council, National Economic Council and the Economic Management Team.

Dr Usman was the first Nigerian Minister to publicly declare his assets before assuming office as a public officer, an act considered as a sign of accountability and transparency in a country noted for its high levels of corruption.

Robert R. Amsterdam

International Law Expert

In his over  25 years of practice, Robert R. Amsterdam has handled numerous international business disputes and in a variety of emerging markets. With an active trade and subsidy practice, Amsterdam has both defended and prosecuted cases for and against governments and corporations. Canadian Lawyer says of Amsterdam that he is "one of the few lawyers in the world [good at] taking on the state when the state starts acting like a criminal."

Amsterdam has worked in countries as diverse as Hungary, Nigeria, Venezuela, and Guatemala and is deeply experienced with politically sensitive cases. Highly regarded for his strategic innovation and international reach, Amsterdam was retained by the Russian corporation YUKOS-Group MENATEP in 2003 for the defence of former CEO Mikhail Khodorkovsky - one of the most high profile cases in modern Russian history and by El-Rufai.

He co-founded the Toronto-based law firm Amsterdam & Peroff with Dean A. Peroff in 1980 and has represented well-known global corporations including PriceWaterhouseCoopers and the Four Seasons Hotel Group. Amsterdam has delivered speeches at organisations such as the Carnegie Endowment, the Fraser Institute and the International Commission of Jurists and has debriefed parliamentarians and NGO leaders on a variety of political, legal, and business issues. His expert legal commentary is frequently featured in the media, and he has appeared in the American press Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, the UK press the Financial Times, Guardian, German press Die Press, Tagesspiegel, the French press Le Monde amongst others, and was prominently featured in a BBC documentary.

Otunba GBENGA DANIEL

Humanitarian, Philanthropist, State Governor

An inspiring leader with a firm commitment to excellence, Governor Daniel, has since assumption of office in May 2003, provided employment to over five thousand hitherto jobless youths among them, the so called “Area Boys” through the Ogun State Employment Generation Programme (OGEGEP). Little wonder that in 2004, he clinched two enviable awards. First was the MKO Abiola prize for Political Leadership and second, the Prize for the Best Performing Governor in Nigeria for the Year 2003

An acknowledged lover of humanity, a philanthropist of note, an accomplished leader of thought and a consummate visionary and statesman, Otunba Justus Olugbenga Daniel is the Governor of Ogun State. Daniel's skills as a consumable manager and strategist manifested as early as 1969 while at the Baptist Boys High School, Abeokuta that he attended from 1969 to 1973. While there, he represented the school in a lot of extra curricular activities such as debates and quiz competitions, a factor which made him exceptionally popular among his contemporaries and which also stimulated his intellectual prowess.

Having graduated from the Baptist Boys High School in flying colours, he proceeded first to the School of Basic Studies at The Polytechnic, Ibadan for his Advanced Level (A' Level) and thereafter moved to the School of Engineering of the University of Lagos. In his early years as an undergraduate, he won several scholarships and also became well acquainted with the legendary, Prof. Ayodele Awojobi as one of the best students of the late prodigy.

To learn more, visit http://gbengadaniel.com/bio.html at TodaysNigerians.com

Chief Raymond Dopkesi

Nigerian Media Mogul

The Ted Turner of Nigeria, High Chief Raymond Dopkesi is the pioneer of Africa’s first satellite television station, African Independent Television, AIT. He is also the pioneer of the first privately owned radio station in Nigeria. He has received numerous awards as chairman of Daar Communications.

AIT is received in America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe via satellite, as well as many countries within Africa.

HON. ABIKE DABIRI-EREWA

Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.

Prior to being elected into the Nigeria House of Representatives, Abike was famous nationwide as an outstanding media practitioner, Abike Dabiri fondly called “Mother of Teresa of the tube” spent 15 years of distinguished and meritorious service at the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA). While there, she anchored the weekly NTA Newsline programme to the delight of millions.

Hon. Dabiri warmed her way into the hearts of many with her gallantry efforts of using television as an effective tool to draw attention to the Millions of Nigerians suffering from the pains of poverty and injustice.  She has been awarded Representative of the year (2009) CP Awards, Winner of the Thisday Newspaper Award as Best Rep of the year 2005,Most articulate Representative from Lagos State (2009) Legislative Awards for Excellence and many, others, like the Toastmasters Communication award, July 2009.

She is a graduate of the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU) Ile – Ife where she obtained a degree in English Language. She continued her quest for knowledge at the University of Lagos, Akoka from where she obtained a post graduate Diploma (PGD) in Mass Communication and also a Masters Degree in Mass Communication. She also had a stint at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA

Without doubt, this tireless crusader of justice is a pride to Ikorodu and Lagos State and an asset to the nation and humanity. She is a believer in good leadership and stewardship with high sense of accountability. Today, she stands as a worthy example of what a leader should be,

Also in attendance with Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa are Hon. Idris Keita, Hon. Isa Egah Dobi, Hon. Kalu Uduma Igu, Barr. Oscar C. OKORO, Abdurahaman Balogun, Dele Abiru. 

Hon. Jim Karygiannis, P.C., M.P.

Member of Parliament, Canada

Mr. Karygiannis the chair of the Canadian Nigerian Parliamentary Friendship Association. First elected to the House of Commons in 1988 Jim celebrated his 20th Anniversary as a Member of Parliament on November 21, 2008.

Mr. Karygiannis previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister responsible for Democratic Renewal. He has also served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport with special emphasis on transportation and environment. He is presently a member of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration.

Scarborough-Agincourt is one of the most ethnically diverse federal ridings in Canada. Jim Karygiannis is an effective voice for the people he serves, taking their concerns, on a wide variety of issues, including: immigration; taxation; justice; and, Canada’s global responsibilities, to Caucus and the House of Commons for debate.

Jim Karygiannis has participated and led many Canadian Trade and Fact Finding Missions around the world. In one of those missions in February 2010 Mr. Karygiannis visited Nigeria

Jim Karygiannis has participated in several humanitarian initiatives to help rebuild countries in the aftermath of devastating national and/or natural disasters. He has long advocated a permanent “made-in-Canada solution” to help strengthen Canada’s response to international crises. In his view, Canada’s response must include a mechanism for re-uniting Canadian citizens with their loved ones abroad who have been adversely affected by a catastrophic event.

Professor Iyorwuese Hagher 

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Canada

Professor Iyorwuese Hagher is recipient of Nigeria's National Honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He is founder and Honorary President of Leadership Institute Nigeria, and Director of the Association of Nigerians Against Corruption (ANAC) as well as member, International Council for Management Consulting Institutes (ICMC). He is Fellow Society of Nigerian Theatre Artists, and Fellow Institute of Management Consultants. On his arrival in Canada as the official representative of Nigeria, Prof. Hagher has become a member of NIDO Canada -- a demonstration of his commitment to the diaspora community and his personal vision a greater understanding of Nigeria to Canada, and re-invigorate the Bi-national Commission to improve trade between the two countries.

AMBASSADOR JOE C. KESHI

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Amb. Joe C. Keshi is the . Before then, he was the Cabinet Secretary, The presidency. Until then he was the National Coordinator of the Nigerian National Volunteer Service, The Presidency, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Prior to his assignment as the National Coordinator (NNVS), Ambassador Keshi was the the Consul-General of Nigeria, Consulate of Nigeria, Atlanta, Georgia, from 1999-2004. His representational duties covered 14 Southern States of the United States of America.

Keshi was a member of the Nigerian delegation to numerous bilateral and multilateral, ministerial and summit meetings aimed at improving bilateral relations, and at resolving African political problems of the last two decades. He has also participated at different ministerial meetings aimed at establishing the institutions and programmes of the West African Economic Community (ECOWAS) and later prepared various protocols for implementation of the ECOWAS objectives.

Jelani Aliyu

Head of Design, General Motors, USA

When General Motors needed a design for a car that would take them to the next level Jelani’s was chosen out of hundreds. As the designer of GM’s Chevy Volt, Jelani has had tremendous success as a Nigerian in Diaspora. A statement issued in New York by GM states: "GM`s most electrifying advanced technology vehicle is the Chevrolet Volt concept, a battery-powered, extended-range electric passenger vehicle". It uses a gas engine to create additional electricity. The technology behind the Volt concept, GM`s E-flex System, allows electricity to be produced from gasoline, ethanol, bio-diesel or hydrogen, helping to provide a global solution to diversifying transportation energy sources."

NIDO Canada is proud to present an electrifying presentation by Jelani Aliyu at the World Conference. Aliyu hails from Sokoto State Nigeria, where he attended Capital School, Sokoto and Federal Government College.

PROFESSOR BENEDICTA EGBO

Educator

Professor Benedicta Egbo is a professor of Educational Administration, Policy and Leadership at the University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada. She is also the Director of the Joint PhD Program in Educational Studies, a graduate program that is offered jointly by a consortium of three Canadian Universities.  She has published widely and, her works are used nationally and internationally in many university classrooms.  Her recent book, Teaching for Diversity in Canadian Schools (Pearson Education Canada, 2009) discusses important policy and practical strategies for empowering and increasing the educational success of all students in Canada especially those who come from minority backgrounds such as Black, immigrant and language minority children. Prof.  Egbo is the recipient of several academic awards and recognitions. She recently co-founded a non-profit organization that is devoted to improving the life chances of the less privileged in some developing countries especially in Nigeria (and West Africa) through increased access to quality education, educational infrastructure and resources. Professor Egbo has contributed significantly to making a difference in the Diaspora through her educational, community and research-related activities.

Dr. O.A. Kassim, MD, FRCPC, FCAP

Pathologist in Chief and Director of Laboratory Services

West Parry Sound Heath Centre, Parry Sound Ontario, Canada; Chairman & CEO, Parry Sound Muskoka Laboratories Inc.

Dr. Ola Kassim has served as the Pathologist in Chief and Director of Laboratory Services at the West Parry Sound Health Centre, Parry Sound, Ontario since May 1985. He also serves as the Regional Forensic Pathologist for the Districts of Parry Sound–Muskoka and North Simcoe. He is currently a Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, Ontario From 1983 to 1985, Dr. Kassim was a lecturer at the Department of Pathology at the University of Toronto and an associate staff pathologist at the Sunnybrook Medical Health Centre, Toronto.  A selection of co-authored articles includes: Myocardial Infarction in Utero; “Harmatoma of the Larynx;” and, Ovarian carcinoid tumor with massive retro peritoneal fibrosis”

Dr. Kassim has earned many awards over the years, including the Metro Toronto Civic Award, 2000; Academic Excellence, Nigerian-Canadian Association, 1999; Leadership Award, Cultural Association, 1996, ‘97; Community Leadership, Yoruba Cultural Association, 1996 ‘98. Leadership and Excellence Award – Black History Month, 2006

His affiliations and memberships include membership in the Society of Northern Ontario Pathologists; Canadian Medical Association; Canadian Association of Pathologist; American Society of Clinical Pathologists, College of American Pathologist, Ontario Medial Association. He is involved in the community as the Chairman, Board of Director Nigerians in Diaspora Organization, NIDO Americans Inc.; 2004 to 2007; Black Business and Professional Association of Canada (BBPA); Patron Nigerian Community Association GTA Toronto, and Yoruba Community Association Assn. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Richmond Hill. 

Dr. Jude Igwemezie, P.eng

President & CEO TransGlobim Corporation

Dr. Jude Igwemezie is the President of Applied Rail Research Technologies, Inc. a railway research and consultancy company. He is also the chairman of NorFast Inc, a rail fastener manufacturing and supply company. He is a professional engineer with a Ph.D. in engineering from McGill University in Montreal.

Dr. Igwemezie's expertise is in railway engineering where he is actively involved in the design, testing, assessment of railway structures, failure analysis and development of standards and policies for improved railway track maintenance. He is a recognized industry expert on derailments including drafting expert opinions and reports, and providing expert witness testimony in litigations in both the United States and Canada. He also has numerous patents to his credit. He is currently Chairman of North America’s subcommittee on rail rolling specifications. 

Dr. Igwemezie has won several major awards including: Gold Medal in the Industrial Systems Category of the Canadian Design Engineering Awards; “Harry Jerome Award” for Professional Excellence from the Black Business & Professional Association of Canada; Outstanding Business Achievement award from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC); Outstanding Professionalism and Entrepreneurship Award from Anambra States Association (ASA) of Canada; and the Award for Outstanding Contributions by the Nigerian Association of Ottawa.

George Weber

President & CEO

Royal Ottawa Health Care Group

George Weber has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Ottawa Health Care Group since April 2008, after having served over 26 years as a Chief Executive Officer of a number of National and International Organizations, including the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (i.e. Intern Federation) in Geneva, Switzerland. He is currently serving or has served on a number of not-for-profit Boards of Directors in Canada and Switzerland and is a certified corporate director (i.e. ICD.D).

He is trilingual and holds a Master's degree from McGill University and has completed the Advanced Management Program from the Graduate School of Business Administration, Harvard University, the International Program for Board Members from the Institute of Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland and the Directors course sponsored by the Institute of Corporate Directors and the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto.

He has been awarded a number of national and foreign honours and recognitions.

Dr. Rukevwe Ugwumba

Associate Professor, Family Medicine Practitioner

Dr. Ruky Ugwumba is an Associate Professor in Family Medicine University of Saskatchewan. Based in Regina, Saskatchewan (Canada) since 2002, Dr Ugwumba runs a busy Family practice and in 2008, set up another practice in Brampton Ontario.

With special interest in Public Health and Infectious Diseases, she attended the esteemed London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medical (LSHTM) UK, for both her Masters and PhD Program. At LSHTM, Dr Ugwumba received the Langley Memorial Prize for the Best Masters Thesis, and the Tropical Disease Research (TDR) Grant from the World Health Organization (WHO) for her PhD work. Her attention to detail and her excellence in academic performance HAVE been a continuum since her early childhood. Dubbed ‘DR LOVE’ by her patients and many colleagues, she brings warmth into each encounter with people be it patients, students, peers and other members of staff. Indeed her bedside manner is exemplary.

While teaching Undergraduate and Postgraduate Medical Students in Canada and enjoying a full Practice in both Provinces, Dr Ugwumba decided to join the Staff of Delta State University teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) as Director of Research and Innovation as soon as the opportunity became available to enable her give back and because of her core beliefs that nowhere but HOME is really the best. As President of Healthcare Improvement Systems, a Canadian Company, Ruky is actively involved in building health care systems in Africa. Currently ongoing is a $50M PPP with the River’s State Government to build and operate a 250-bed Women and Children’s Hospital, in Port Harcourt Rivers State.

Ruky is very active with charity work and has in the past joined several international charities and NGO’s to provide aid to Africa. Partnering with several organisations such as Health Partners of Canada, Ruky gave donations of expertise, drugs and equipment to several impoverished African communities. Nee Akpedeye, Dr Ugwumba hails from Ughelli North Local Government Area in Delta State. She is happily married to Emeka Ugwumba. They are a young family with 3 healthy children.

Professor Alexander MacGregor Ph.D.

Pharmacologist, Educator, Inventor

Dr. Alexander MacGregor is the founder, President, and current Dean of Faculty at the Toronto Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology (TIPT®) – North America’s premier post-graduate institute of pharmaceutical sciences, technology and research. He is a professor of pharmaceutical technology and biopharmaceutics and received honours degree (Magna Cum Laude-BSc) in Medical Biochemistry and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmaceutics from the University of Wales and the Royal Post-Graduate Medical School London, UK.

Dr. MacGregor is also a pharmaceutical science inventor with 20 years of experience in the design, development and clinical testing of pharmaceutical and bio-pharmaceutical products in Europe, Canada, USA, and China. He is an expert in pharmaceutical technology and novel drug delivery systems and the recipient of several patents in the field of pharmaceutical drug delivery technologies from Canada, US, Australia, Europe and Japan. Professor MacGregor’s inventions have led to ground-breaking therapeutic drugs for the treatment and management of diabetes, systemic infections, cancer and post-operative pain.

Dr. MacGregor’s noted expertise in translating pharmaceutical knowledge into sustainable business has contributed to the enabling of industrial and economic developments in the pharmaceutical sector in Canada, China and the Caribbean. In 2002 Dr. MacGregor was appointment by the Government of China as an International Advisor in the field of pharmaceutical technology and research through a nomination proffered by the City of Beijing and Beijing Double-Crane Pharmaceutical Co: China’s third largest pharmaceutical company.

Dr. MacGregor is a recipient of several honours and awards from various community organisations and institutions.

Peter Kieran

Public Transport Investment Specialist

Peter Kieran is the President of CPCS. He has completed over 300 international consulting assignments in over 30 developed and developing countries. He is recognized in Canada as an expert on infrastructure investment in Africa and was recently the Chairman of the Canada Council on Africa.

Since 1990, Peter has been working with international financial institutions as well numerous African governments to develop new approaches to the reform and privatization of transportation systems. He has played a key role in developing the policies and practices used to concession railways and ports in Africa. He has provided policy direction to national governments in over 25 countries on infrastructure. His track record on new investment in rail and ports is impressive. He is a leading expert on the commercialization of transport infrastructure and is a frequent guest speaker at investment conferences. 

Peter has been responsible for leading large multi-disciplinary teams leading to the successful privatization of more than ten state-owned railways and ports, the majority on the African continent. His clients include the Government of Canada, the World Bank, the United Nations and the governments of several developing countries.

His current initiative is to stress the importance and the economic and financial feasibility of urban mass transit systems for Africa’s large and rapidly growing cities. In this regard he is leading the CPCS team that is assisting the Lagos State Government to implement the first major PPP commuter rail project in Sub-Saharan Africa – the Lagos Blue Line.

Earlier in his career Mr. Kieran worked for IBM and McKinsey Consulting.  He holds an Engineering degree from the University of Toronto an MBA from Harvard University.

LARA OKUNUBI

Industry Leader, Entrepreneur

Lara Okunubi is a proud mother of four, a Nigerian naturalized citizen of United States, has resided in Los Angeles, California since 1984 till present.

A graduate of Business Administration from ABU, Zaria(1982) and MBA, Business Administration, London(1984), Licensed U.S. Customs Broker(1998), Licensed Real Estate Agent(2004) and other professional licenses and certification in social services.

She emigrated to the United States in 1984 with her late husband, Bayo Okunubi, with only $500 and a suitcase; twenty years later we own a business that employs more than fifty people. Lara's overarching goal as a CEO is to handle every situation with renewed determination focused on productivity.

As an Entrepreneur with more than a decade of experience managing the fiscal operations, Lara Okunubi can boast of success stories in team building, sustainable development of people and resources as well as corporate accountability.

Professor Francis Igboji Idike, (Engr. Dr.)

Agricultural Engineer (Soil and Water), Educator

Professor Francis is currently the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and a member of the Governing Council of University of Nigeria, Nuskka, Nigeria. He has taught at various universities in Nigeria and the US, including University of Minnesota Minneapolis -- St Paul, Minnesota, USA; Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

A well published academician, Professor Idike consults on issue of water resources and agricultural soil management, including Soil – Plant – Water Relationships (Infiltration, Evaporation, Irrigation and Drainage Systems); Soil Conservation and Erosion Control Techniques, and Farm Structures and Environmental Control. With eight research projects on the go, Professor Idike has completed research projects focusing on Field Evaluation of Infiltration Models; Soil Moisture Modelling; Determination of critical soil & water parameters of tropical (Nsukka) Soil; Evapotranspiration modelling; Application of Solar Energy in Chick brooding; Waste water as Irrigation Water. He also serves on various public boards, commissions and programmes.

TITILOLA & 'SEGUN OLUDE

Community Activists, Speakers and Faith-based Motivators

Titi and ’Segun olude both received their early education in Nigeria, before they met at the renowned School of Fine Art of Yaba College of Technology. Titi went on to study Interior Design at the Maryland University in the State of Maryland USA, while ’Segun stayed on to finish his fine art education in Nigeria. They later married and moved to Canada, where ’Segun continued his education in Graphic Design at the University of Manitoba.

Since arriving in Canada, both ’Segun and Titi have grown in their faith and are now very involved in training and counselling activities through their local church. Titi Olude is currently a Prayer Counsellor at their church, while ’Segun runs his graphic design firm, Indigo Ink Studios, and teaches part-time at the University of Manitoba.

Both have now devoted a good portion of their personal time and resources to pursue an inexplicable vision of seeing their home country, Nigeria, become a viable and caring nation like their host country, Canada. They are both active in various community groups in Canada. They go a mission each year as Promisedland Ministries into rural areas of Nigeria, to engage community and church leaders to rally their communities through vision-casting, leadership training and other transformative endeavours.

Kolawole M. Oyewumi

Engineer, Product Champion - Softoille LIMS

After almost a decade of seismic data acquisition with Schlumberger in various countries, Kola Oyewumi, an accomplished engineer, decided to further his passion and explore his flair for software development, driven by the belief that he could leverage his experience on the field, by being part of software solution providers for the same Oil & Gas industry. On immigrating to Canada 10 years ago he put his energy into achieving his objectives and broaden his horizon. His experience includes to providing solutions in geophysical GIS-based QC applications, seismic data acquisition, seismic data processing, enterprise Small-Medium Business (SMB) and most recently in the exciting new technology of Software-as-a- Service Cloud Computing.

One of his notable achievements in the industry is being the lead/core developer in the highly successful and innovative ARIES PatchView which was well received in its first launch at Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG ) Denver Convention 2004 and continues to receive accolades. In the seismic data acquisition industry, PatchView remains trailblazing, exemplary and is widely known as the  industry's "only real-time, quality control (QC) application"

He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng) from University of Ilorin, a graduate diploma in Object-Oriented Technology from University of Calgary, and a soon to be completed MSc Information System Management (ISM) program from University of Liverpool. His professional journey includes Telnet Nigeria, Schlumberger, QuantRisk.com, Geo-X System (ARAM), Arcis Corporation and Symantec.

Kola believes Africa should take full advantage of technology to solve some of its problems. Technology through the eyes of, or in collaboration with competent Africans for sustainability. Softoille's LIMS is a testament to that.

TAOFEEQ OLATINWO

Engineer, Consultant, Motivator

Taofeeq is the President and CEO of Harmony Worldwide Inc, a company established to deliver world-class and cost-effective business solutions. He is also the creator and moderator of eGovernment Nigeria forum on Linked-in, a social network site to allow professionals contribute to the development of Nigeria. He was a speaker at many international events including the international conference for Society of Petroleum Engineers.

Taofeeq started his career at Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Nigeria as a highway engineer and has spent the last 20 years in Oil, Gas and Energy industries, providing global consulting services around the world. As a professional, he volunteered with other Nigerians to design and deliver the website for Nigerian Embassy, The Netherlands.

He is a project management professional with MSc in Civil Engineering, MBA in Management and other professional certifications.

CHIGOZIE FIDELIA OBI-NNADOZIE (MRS.)

Diplomat, International Law + Foreign Policy Expert

Fidelia Chigozie is currently the Director/Head (Nodal Officer) Ministerial SERVICOM Unit (MSU) in Abuja, Nigeria. She is responsible for producing, reviewing and monitoring performance of service Charters in the Ministry and its parastatals; managing the Ministry’s Customer Relations Policy including providing opportunities for customer (Nigeria’s diplomatic and consular Missions abroad and Diplomatic and Consular Missions accredited to Nigeria, Multilateral Organizations and Agencies accredited to Nigeria, NGOs, Federal and State Ministries and Agencies, Private Sector and the Public) feedback on services; and ensuring that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides prompt, vibrant and effective leadership in the formulation and execution of Nigeria’s foreign policy, including manifest efforts to secure Nigeria a berth in the contemporary international milieu dominated by rapid technological, economic and social changes occasioned by globalization.

Prior to her current position, she was the Head of the Nigerian diplomatic corps in Port Of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, serving as Minister and Acting High Commissioner. While there, her broad range of duties included representational duties; setting the general direction of Mission’s affairs in all five countries of concurrent accreditation, and policy formulation in the Mission in general.

AKINWALE ROY OJOMO

Banker, Consultant, Publisher

A seasoned consultant with numerous accomplishments in the areas of Global Banking Operations, Developmental Consulting, Diversity, Community Service & Volunteering Programs, Globalization, African Faith Based Initiatives, Immigrants transition and Youth Empowerment.

Prior to joining Roy Synergy Group, USA as a Senior Partner and publisher of Ebo Magazine, he has worked with Citibank, Key Bank and Chams where he was actively involved with the implementation of Diversity in the workplace and supporting Volunteering/Community Service. He has been involved in Global Diversity projects which earned him a nomination as a “Diversity Contributor” and featured in the 2006 Citigroup Global Diversity Calendar.

He has been a yearly recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) since 2004. Based on his involvement in promoting charitable work and improving the African image, he has attended Global Philanthropy Forum, Philanthropy Summit, Clinton Global Initiative AGM, and  World Economic Forum. Early in 2009, he was announced by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader for his contributions to the African Diaspora.

Aside, he led the “African Descent Faith Based and Community Organizations Directory” facilitate Working Visits of top African leaders to the United States, registering the African Based Organizations as Certifying Organization in the United States President’s Volunteer Service Award (PSVA)

He is currently working on a book “Philanthropy in Africa” and launching of the 5M2015, an aggressive program to mobilize 5 million volunteer hours to African countries between 2010-2015 to support the United Nations Millennium Development Goals MDG in the areas of Health and Education.

Akinwale has an MBA and completed an Executive Education at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government on “Leadership and Public Policy for the 21st Century”

Akinwale is married to Bukola, and live with their children in Bowie, Maryland State

PROF. FEMI AJAYI, PHD., M.A., B.A.

Consultant, Educator, Researcher, Advisor

Professor Femi Ajayi's illustrious career spans various locales in the United States and Nigeria as advisor, consultant, educator, manager, researcher and safety auditor. He is currently serving as the Chairman of the Management Board of Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu

Currently the Head of Department, Political Science & Public Administration, Babcock University, Ilishan, Ogun State, Nigeria, Professor Ajayi was a Safety Auditor for, Eastern Airlines, Atlanta, Georgia; Consultant on Leadership and a Policy Analyst for Leadership Institute for Mayors-National Conference of Black Mayors, Atlanta, Georgia; Statistical Analyst Legislative Assistant for Rep. Bettie Anne Hart, Georgia Assembly; Legislative Consultant to the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, Atlanta, Georgia; Senior Consultant - Psychometrician, Office of Secretary of State, Examination Development & Testing Unit, Atlanta, Georgia; and the Executive Director, Office of Secretary of State, Professional Licensing Board Division, Examination Development & Testing Unit, State of Georgia.

Specializing in International Relations, Public Administration, African Politics, Comparative Politics, and Global Conflict Management, Professor Ajayi's educational qualifications include a Ph.D., Political Science, Clark Atlanta University, Georgia; a masters in International Relations, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma; a bachelors' degree in Public Service from the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma; and an N.C.E. in West African History, Geography, Philosophy, and Psychology from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria (1977)

Professor Ajayi is a recipient of several honours and awards, including the Nigeria Image Award; Alliance of Nigerian Organizations in Georgia, Atlanta (2006) Presidential Milestone Award; Medical Philanthropy, National Association of Yoruba Descendants in North America, Tampa, Florida (2006); Humanitarian and Community Service Award, Eko Club Atlanta, (2006); Outstanding Georgia Citizen, Secretary of State, Atlanta, Ga. (2001, 1999); Community Service Award, Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, Atlanta, GA. (1996); Certificate of Appreciation; Ebony Academy Parents Teachers Students Association, Forsyth, Georgia (1996); Fellowship Award, Clark Atlanta University (1988 – 1991) and the All-American Scholar Award, United States Achievement Academy (1993) to name a few.

REV. DON IFEPE

Preacher, Publisher, Teacher

Don Ifepe is a dynamic preacher, publisher, teacher and television host based in Toronto Canada. He is the Senior Pastor and General Overseer of Believers Full Gospel Vineyard Church, Toronto Ontario. Rev. Don Ifepe is a Television Evangelist, Editor-in-Chief of Miles Christian Magazines reaching well over 25 thousand in each edition.

EFFA EMMANUEL

Author, Prophet, Speaker

EFFA Emmanuel is the presiding pastor of World Royal city church, a fast growing multi-denominational, multifaceted church with branches in Africa and the United states. He is the vice president and co founder of The Evangelical Ark Mission (TEAM) – an organization committed to missions and church planting with churches in different parts of the world .He is also the president of International Prophetic Prayer Network - a network of intercessors committed to praying for leaders around the world. Effa Emmanuel is a Prophet, motivation speaker, author, and Apostle to the Nations.their message.

Eugene Nwosu

Bestselling Author, Human Development Consultant, Life + Business Coach, Community Leader, Entrepreneur

Mr. Nwosu is an exemplary Nigerian in Diaspora leader of over 24 years integrity based community leadership.  His ‘life of unique creative purpose’ involves the conscientious and congruent  harnessing and applying energy, drive, enthusiasm and creativity to inspire, encourage, motive, and significantly make positive difference in people’s life.

Eugene N. Nwosu is the best-selling author of Cut Your Own Firewood – The Ultimate Power to Succeed and the audio cassette program entitled The Ultimate Power to Succeed in the 21st Century, and his latest book, Optimal Edge focuses on Optimal Paradigm for Extraordinary Leadership, Entrepreneurial Success and Personal Happiness. Mr. Nwosu is the founder of Support for Enterprise and Empowerment Development (SEED) Foundation in Nigeria and his entrepreneurial actives include a partnership with officials in Nigeria to provide low-cost housing and create employment for the less fortunate.  He offers lectures, seminars and one-on-one coaching using the legendary tactics of Optimal Edge.  Originally, from Nigeria, Nwosu lives in Dublin, Ireland with his wife, Ursula and their three children.

IKE RAYMOnd Ukwuoma

Entrepreneur, Industrial Engineer

Ike Raymond Ukwuoma was born in Imo State of Nigeria, He is a Professional Engineer in the province of Ontario. Educated at the University of Windsor, Ike has a Bachelors degree Industrial Engineering and has worked as an Industrial Engineer with Rockwell Automotive, Chatham Ontario, Benue Cement Company Gboko Benue State as a Senior Maintenance Engineer. He worked for Bombardier Transportation in Kingston Ontario as Operations and Maintenance Engineer for 10 years before retiring. Ike is the President of Cenof Services Incorporated engaged in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems based in Mississauga Ontario

DR. AMOS DELE DADA

Chemical Engineer, Evangelist, Pastor, Teacher

Prior his calling, Dr. Amos Dele Dada got both  his Bachelor’s and Masters degree from University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), then proceeded to earn a PhD in Chemical Engineering from University of Benin (1995)--the first to attain that feat in that University. He also did a post doctoral research in the same field at University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) in 1996. From 1985 to 2001 he worked as a Process Engineer with Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) a subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC). He also worked briefly as a Consultant Engineer with Sarir Refinery in Libya, a subsidiary of Arabian Gulf oil Company (AGOCO).In 2009; he became a certified General Practice Psychotherapist Counselor (GPP). He has honorary Doctorate of Pastoral Counseling(DCP) awarded  from Canadian Institute of Christian Counselors a Canadian Seminary in conjunction with The Evangelical Order Pastoral Counselor of America (EOCPC).

Trained in Capacity Building from Humber College and George Brown College, Pastor Dada is a community activist. He started Best Literacy club in 2003 in Toronto. This home work club has metamorphosised to Bethel Group a forum for training, counseling and mentoring youth in the community by engaging them in after school programme where they are taught, mathematics, English, Computer and African Drumming and culture. For Three years (2005-2008) he served as the President of International Minister Fellowship (IMF) of Canada, a group responsible for pastoral training in the Greater Toronto Area.

Dr. Dada is a humanitarian to the core. In Nigeria, he supports the poor five annual scholarship awards to students in the tertiary institution and prints exercise books and distributes them free to children in primary schools annually. He is a strong advocate for good governance in Africa. In 2003, Dr. Dada and his wife established the  International Gathering of Eagles Conference. This annual conference attracts Christians from all continents of the world to Canada.

in the field of engineering; Dr. Dada has many scholastic publications to his credit. He is a life member of Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers and American Institute of Chemical Engineers. In 1997, he became a COREN Registered Engineer, (Council for Regulation of Engineer in Nigeria). In 2007, ten years later he became a Member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario. Pastor Dada, a prolific writer, has authored books, plays and articles on Christian faith.

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