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Tag: Okonkwo

  • Queen Okonkwo scoops award nomination

    Queen Okonkwo scoops award nomination

    The year 2025 continues to mark a season of recognition and global acclaim for renowned Nollywood filmmaker, actress, author, and entrepreneur – Queen Florence Okonkwo.

    Following a series of prestigious honors and appointments earlier in the year, Okonkwo has been nominated for ‘Entertainment Personality of the Year’ at the Clevenard Media Award 2025, scheduled to take place on November 21, 2025 in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

    Okonkwo’s nomination reflects her exceptional contributions to the global entertainment landscape. As founder and CEO of Florence 1Billion Production, Elegantflix Limited, and Florence Blaster Production Limited, she has been a driving force in the evolution of Nollywood content, fostering international partnerships and showcasing African storytelling to global audiences.

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    Her unwavering commitment to cultural representation, creative innovation, and women’s empowerment have positioned her among the most influential figures in African cinema.

    Through her multifaceted career as a filmmaker, actress, and author, she continues to promote unity, entrepreneurship, and the celebration of African heritage worldwide.

    Clevenard Media is a global multimedia network and social communication platform dedicated to connecting Africans and the diaspora through media, culture, education, and entrepreneurship.

    The Clevenard Media Award is one of the organization’s flagship events — a world-class annual gathering that recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations making significant contributions in media, creativity, leadership, and community impact. The award highlights innovation and dedication from personalities who exemplify positive values and inspire change within their industries.

  • Okonkwo’s ‘The Lamp’ for global release

    Okonkwo’s ‘The Lamp’ for global release

    It is stating the obvious that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping global industries—from finance and energy to healthcare, education, and the creative economy. But while many executives acknowledge its disruptive power, few have a clear, practical framework for understanding and applying AI in their organizations and communities.

    That is the gap Dr. Sunny Okonkwo addresses in his newly released book, THE LAMP: AI’s Blueprint for the Future.

    Okonkwo, who currently serves as Head of Data Analytics at Ikeja Electric Plc, Nigeria’s largest power distribution company, is widely recognized for his work in AI systems for energy management, data science, and digital innovation. Beyond the corporate space, he is also an award-winning filmmaker, speaker, and author with a growing international profile.

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    At the center of The Lamp is the LAMP framework—Learning, Analytics, Machine Intelligence, and Prediction—which Okonkwo describes as the four forces driving AI’s influence in business and society. The book simplifies complex AI concepts for leaders, professionals, educators, and even curious citizens, while offering strategies to leverage AI responsibly and creatively.

     “AI is not just about algorithms—it is about people, culture, and decisions,” Okonkwo explains. “Every boardroom conversation today must ask: how do we integrate AI without losing our human values?”

    Unlike purely technical manuals, The Lamp blends business insight, ethical reflection, and storytelling to explore how AI is already changing industries—and how leaders can respond. From financial modeling and customer analytics to bias in machine learning and workforce disruption, the book provides both a warning and a guide for the future.

    THE LAMP: AI’s Blueprint for the Future is now available in paperback on Amazon, with a Kindle edition set for global release on September 14, 2025.

  • Bishop Okonkwo delivers free cataract surgeries at 80

    Bishop Okonkwo delivers free cataract surgeries at 80

    As part of activities to mark his 80th birthday, Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo, is sponsoring free cataract surgeries for 500 Nigerians. The medical outreach, to be carried out at Eye Foundation Hospital, Ikorodu, Lagos, targets individuals suffering from cataracts — a condition that causes clouding of the eye’s natural lens and impairs vision. The initiative is to restore sight, improve quality of life, and reduce preventable blindness in underserved communities.

    Prospective beneficiaries are expected to pick up registration forms at TREM’s International Headquarters in Obanikoro, Lagos, and all TREM branches in the state, or apply online via bit.ly/bmo500eyes. According to ophthalmologists, cataract remains a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness globally, particularly among low-income population, which often cannot afford surgery. Experts assert that surgery is the only effective and reliable treatment for cataract, restoring clear vision and enabling patients to resume normal life activities. Health professionals said cataract surgery reduces risk of falls and accidents, enhances colour perception, reduces glare, and supports early diagnosis and treatment of other eye-related conditions.

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    By sponsoring these surgeries, Dr. Okonkwo is not only offering a lifeline to 500 individuals but also addressing a key public health challenge, especially among the poor and elderly.

    The initiative aligns with his commitment to social responsibility, community wellbeing, and human development. The gesture is one among many interventions under his Empowerment for the Less Privileged (ELP) Foundation, which has supported hospitals, established free vocational training, and facilitated health awareness campaigns.

    His wife, Bishop Peace , runs medical outreaches for women in rural communities, including free cervical cancer screenings and donations to widows.

    In addition to the medical outreach, the 2025 edition of Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture will hold on September 4 at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    With the theme: “The Nigeria of Our Dream: Today’s Reality and a Responsible Pathfinder,” the lecture will be delivered by Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former vice president.

    Major-General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd) is the chairman.

  • Okonkwo wins ‘The Sun Entrepreneur of the Year’ 

    Okonkwo wins ‘The Sun Entrepreneur of the Year’ 

    The Group Managing Director of Nedcomoaks, Dr Kennedy Okonkwo was honoured with ‘The Sun Entrepreneur of the Year’ award for 2024 at the weekend in Lagos. 

    The event, which attracted top executives from the corporate world and prominent political figures, celebrated excellence across various fields, with Okonkwo standing out as a beacon of innovation and leadership in Nigeria’s real estate sector.

    Okonkwo, a seasoned entrepreneur with an MBA from Lagos State University and a B.Sc in Psychology from the University of Ibadan, was recognised for carving a niche for himself as a visionary real estate developer. 

    With over a decade of experience in the corporate world, including roles as Group Managing Director of Capital Mortgage Bank and Business Strategy Advisor at Amazon Energy and XL Management Services, Okonkwo founded Nedcomoaks in 2007.

    What began as a humble venture has grown into a conglomerate with over 10 subsidiary companies and an annual turnover of N30 billion. 

    Under his leadership, Nedcomoaks has become synonymous with luxury, innovation, and sustainability in Nigeria’s real estate market.

    One ofOkonkwo’s most notable achievements is the creation of the Victoria Crest Homes brand, which has redefined luxury living in Nigeria. 

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    His commitment to sustainable development is evident in the groundbreaking Citadel Views Estate 1.0 and 2.0, Nigeria’s first solar-powered estates. These estates not only offer unparalleled luxury but also stand as a testament to Okonkwo’s dedication to environmentally conscious development.

    “Dr. Okonkwo’s vision goes beyond building houses; he is creating communities that embrace sustainability and luxury. His work has set a new standard for real estate development in Nigeria,” The Sun management said.

    Beyond his business acumen, Okonkwo is also known for his philanthropic efforts. Through initiatives like the Eti Osa Community Oba’s Cup, he has consistently used his wealth to uplift society and empower communities. His commitment to giving back has earned him the respect and admiration of many, further solidifying his reputation as a leader who truly cares about the people.

    The Board of Editors at The Sun, highlighted Dr. Okonkwo’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and community development as reasons for selecting him as the winner of the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year award. His ability to transform challenges into opportunities and his dedication to sustainable development have set him apart as a true leader in Nigeria’s business landscape.

  • Okonkwo picks APC form for Anambra primary

    Okonkwo picks APC form for Anambra primary

    All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant in the November 8 Anambra State governorship, Prof. Obiora Okonwko, has said he is on a rescue mission to salvage the state from being plunged further into the abyss.

    He spoke yesterday at the APC Secretariat in Abuja after collecting the N50 million nomination and expression of interest forms.

    The forms were bought for him by a group under the aegis of Anambra Coalition for Progressive Change.

    The Chairman of the United Nigeria Airlines Company Limited declared himself as a frontline runner in the off-season poll.

    “I am from Anambra Central, the votes are domiciled in Ndemili North I am leader of Ndemili North and South. So, the votes are guaranteed,” he said

    Okonwko who said since he declared his intention to contest the governorship, the incumbent Governor Charles Soludo is afraid of his aspiration, because  according him, “he (Soludo) knows I am the candidate to beat.”

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    He alleged that the governor has embarked on series of moves to stop him from picking the APC governorship ticket.

    Elated by the gesture of the coalition in purchasing the nomination forms, Okonwko appreciated the group and promised not to disappoint them, the party and the people of the state, if he wins the November election.

    He said: “You have just presented to me a great gift of N50 million. As you can see, I am full of smiles. I would have said, I wasn’t expecting this but knowing that I am not in this race alone, there are a lot of people who have mind up their minds that whatever is happening in Anambra State isn’t the way to go, particularly with the issue of insecurity.

    “I am encouraged. If there is any doubt, I now know these people are going to match their words with action. They are beside me. With what you have done today, you are those who are beside me. I thank you very much for what you have done. Where this fund came, may God replenish you.”

    “For those who haven’t joined this coalition, this is a wake-up call. We will do justice to rescue Anambra from a man who knows all, who takes no advice.”

    Okonkwo said he was impressed by their gesture which he noted was an affirmation of their confidence in his capacity to govern the state.

    “We are aware of the huge amount being thrown around to ensure that I don’t get the ticket. He (Soludo) knows he can’t square up with me on Election Day. I have picked the form, I am prepared for the battle.

    “To all traditional institutions, religious leaders, the time is now. We may not have the control of having the ticket but we know that with the ticket in our hands, we will secure landslide victory for APC.

  • Tinubu gradually addressing southeast issues – Okonkwo

    Tinubu gradually addressing southeast issues – Okonkwo

    A leading contender for the 2025 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Anambra State, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has praised President Bola Tinubu for gradually and systematically addressing challenges facing the Igbo people. 

    Speaking with reporters on Sunday in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Okonkwo stated that the case of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is also being handled strategically.

    He expressed confidence that Kanu’s incarceration would soon come to an end. 

    Describing the matter as a national issue, Okonkwo emphasized that sensitive security concerns should be addressed with caution rather than public outcry. He assured that systematic efforts are underway to resolve such issues. 

    Okonkwo, who is also the chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), reiterated his belief that the government is making calculated moves to foster peace and stability in the region.

    He said: “Our president is a problem solver and he understands every situation and he’s taking them one after the other. He knows the problems of Ndigbo and he’s not relenting on solving them.

    “He’s not a noisy type but one who smoothly does things. The issue of Nnamdi Kanu is not being ignored, a lot of work is being done on that. It’s a wait-and-see situation,” Okonkwo said

    On the November 8 governorship election in Anambra state, he said APC would win it, adding that those who are contesting for it are serious-minded individuals who are aware of the problems being faced by the masses.

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    The UNA chairman maintained that the governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has done his best which the people see as not enough, describing him as a disappointed

    “Allowing his boys to be using a pestle to disfigure able-bodied men every day in Anambra, is that what you call development? People are being kidnapped and killed daily, is it the Dubai- Taiwan he promised?

    “The masses are going through hell in Anambra and they’re crying for change. The state wants to link up with the federal government. They’re tired of “Soludo Ga Achi” which is the interpretation of the election security outfit he inaugurated (Operation Udo Ga Achi).

    “Soludo has completed the eight years the people of South did not complete if indeed, there’s any form of zoning arrangement, but we know there’s nothing like that in Anambra, it was the arrangement of the APGA party.”

  • Group hails confirmation of Okonkwo, others Into SEDC management

    Group hails confirmation of Okonkwo, others Into SEDC management

    A group, National Advocate for Good Governance has commended the 10th Senate for confirming the appointments of the executive management and board members of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

    The group specifically hailed the appointment of Chief Sylvester Okonkwo as Executive Director, Corporate Services of the Commission.

    The confirmation followed a thorough screening process conducted by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Regional Development Commissions, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, alongside other distinguished members of the committee.

    In a statement, the National Coordinator of the group Dansiraj Muhammed, said Okonkwo’s groundswell of experience will contribute massively to the development of the Commission.

    He commended the Senate for confirming his nomination, while assuring that Okonkwo will discharge his duties effectively in the overall interest of the South East region.

    Other confirmed executive management and board members includes

    “Dr. Emeka Worgu – Chairman,

    Hon. Mark C. Okoye – Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer,

    Chief Sylvester Okonkwo – Executive Director, Corporate Services,

    Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka – Executive Director, Finance,

    Hon. Toby Okechukwu – Executive Director, Projects,

    Sen. Anthony Agbo – Executive Director, Commercial and Industrial Development,

    Dr. Clifford Ogbede – Executive Director, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Rural Development,

    Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah – Member,

    Hon. Okey Ezenwa – Member, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor – Member,

    Chidi Echeazu – Member, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Ph.D. – Member,

    Nasiru Usman – Member, Hamma Adama Ali Kumo – Member,

    Edward David Onoja – Member, Orure Kufre Inima – Member,

    Daniel Akwari – Member

    Chief (Mrs.) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma – Member.

    Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, during the screening process emphasised the critical role of the SEDC in addressing the developmental challenges of the South East region.

    He urged the nominees to uphold the trust placed in them by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, South Easterners, as well as the Nigerian people.

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    “You are the face of this Commission. Do not engage in any act that could tarnish the President’s or the Commission’s image. The Senate will not hesitate to recommend your removal if you fail to deliver,” Kalu stated.

    The SEDC is mandated to address the socio-economic challenges facing the South East region by facilitating rapid and sustainable development. The Commission aims to transform the region into an economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative, and politically peaceful zone through strategic policies, projects, and partnerships.

    The confirmation of the SEDC Executive Management and Board members by the Senate marks a significant milestone in addressing the developmental needs of the South East region. The Commission is expected to commence operations upon its inauguration. Its primary focus will no doubt be on sustainable infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and regional collaboration to create a stable and prosperous South East.

  • Okonkwo, Oyedepo, Ashimolowo, others for Abundant Life Church 40th anniversary

    Okonkwo, Oyedepo, Ashimolowo, others for Abundant Life Church 40th anniversary

    The Founder of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo, Founder and Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, Global President of Kingsway International Christian Centre, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and others are billed to attend the 40th anniversary of Abundant Life Gospel Church, Lagos, holding from October 21-27.

    The theme of the event is ‘Next Level’.

    In a statement issued ahead of the anniversary to The Nation yesterday, the General Overseer of Abundant Life Gospel Church, Rev Dr Janet Onaolapo, said the anniversary would have a positive impact on the nation due to the offering of intercessory prayers for Nigeria, as thousands of worshipers from the 20 branches of the church within and outside Nigeria, friends and loved ones were expected to be present.

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    She said: “For the past 40 years, God has constantly fought for us in these battles of life. This is our year of the supernatural and we shall all manifest. Get ready to meet the one who answers prayers, get ready for the next level. For 40 years, we’ve been walking in grace and witnessing great leaps.

    “Join us for a powerful experience with the legendary Fathers of Faith and soul-stirring Gospel music ministers.”

    The anniversary, according to the statement, will be held at the 25,000-seater church’s international headquarters, Peace Cathedral, 69, Iju Road, Agege, Lagos with activities such as impactful words, music concerts, special seminars on business, health talks, trade fair, among others.

  • Collective responsibility key to progress – Okonkwo

    Collective responsibility key to progress – Okonkwo

    A renowned philanthropist, Sir Kinze Okonkwo, has said collective responsibility is crucial to Nigeria’s progress, saying individual efforts, combined with government initiatives, can drive meaningful change and foster national growth.

    He stated that development is a shared responsibility, adding that Nigerians must move beyond relying solely on government interventions and take ownership of communities’ well-being.

    Speaking in Ibadan after donating multimillion chairs to Ibadan Airport, Okonkwo urged Nigerians to join forces and contribute to the country’s progress, citing impact of collaborative efforts in other African nations.

    The philanthropist, who is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UcheKinze Nigeria Limited said Nigerians must harness her collective strength to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

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    Speaking on motive behind donation of chairs to the Airport, Okonkwo said the donation was borne out of his passion to enhance and solve one of the challenges confronting the airport.

    He said: “There is money in the hands of people, sometimes we shouldn’t wait for government to do all, there are alot burdens on government also.

    “We are government on our own, 

    Nigerians must always seek for the peace and unity of the nation, things will be better if we can show love and demonstrate it.”

    The acting Manager of Ibadan Airport, Francis Balogun lauded gesture of the donor, urging other well meaning Nigerians to emulate the donor.

  • Okonkwo credits Wakama’s pep talk for Canada win

    Okonkwo credits Wakama’s pep talk for Canada win

    Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress skipper, Amy Okonkwo has credited the half time pep talk from the Rena Wakama led technical crew as the springboard they needed to relaunch themselves in the game with Canada yesterday.

    D’Tigress defeated 5th seeded Canada 79-70 points to record their second victory of the group stage but they were trailing at half time 41-37 points despite their explosive start.

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    Okonkwo who sustained a shoulder injury but continued after some rest said they knew they needed to do something special to qualify for the quarter final after their loss to hosts France in the second group game.

    “I am so proud of us. The last game wasn’t good for us and even in the first half today, we were not doing what we wanted to come out and do. We had a talk with ourselves and realized it was winning  or go home and we decided we wanted to stay.” Nigeria forward, Okonkwo said.