In the heart of Edo State, where the sun sets over fields of green, a story unfolds – a story of democracy, fairness, equity, and justice. As the gentle breeze whispers through the leaves, a voice rises, determined and passionate, belonging to none other than Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie.
She’s not just a gubernatorial aspirant; she’s a humanitarian with a lion’s heart, driven by a commitment to place service above self. In her journey, the essence of democracy becomes more than just a political notion—it transforms into a fervent belief that the true dividends of democracy can only be achieved when fairness, equity, and justice prevail.
As the labor party’s beacon of hope, Ambassador Princess embarks on a quest to redefine the narrative of governance in Edo State. Her lion heart beats for the people, echoing a commitment to prioritize their well-being. The story she pens is not about personal ambition but about a relentless passion to serve, rooted in a belief that every citizen deserves a fair share of the democratic bounty.
To unravel the essence of her mission, Ambassador Princess opens the pages of her Electronic Press Kit (EPK). The EPK serves as a key to understanding the Who, What, Where, When, and Why of her passionate service to the people of Edo State.
Who:
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie, a lion-hearted leader with a profound humanitarian spirit. Her identity is woven into the fabric of Edo, an individual whose story intertwines with the collective narrative of the state.
What:
A commitment to fairness, equity, and justice—the pillars upon which the dividends of democracy stand. Her vision transcends mere political aspirations; it’s about creating tangible, positive change in the lives of the people she seeks to serve.
Where:
The landscape of Edo State becomes the canvas upon which her aspirations are painted. From the bustling streets of Benin City to the serene corners of Uromi, her vision spans across every nook and cranny of the state.
When:
Now, in this moment, when the call for transformative leadership echoes through the corridors of Edo. It’s a time when the yearning for true representation is palpable, and Ambassador Princess steps forward to answer that call.
Why:
Driven by a passion to serve, Ambassador Princess believes in a Edo State where democracy isn’t just a word but a lived experience. Her “why” is embedded in a desire to bring about positive change, to uplift communities, and to make the dividends of democracy a reality for every Edo citizen.
As the story unfolds, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie emerges not just as a candidate but as a protagonist in a narrative that seeks to rewrite the future of Edo State. Through her biography, the intricate details of her passion and dedication come to life, offering a glimpse into the transformative journey she envisions for the people she’s committed to serving.
To know more about Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie click here
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.
Vision for Edo State: 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:
1. Economic Development and Job Creation: Ambassador Okojie is committed to fostering economic growth in Edo State. She plans to create an environment conducive to investment and entrepreneurship, generating job opportunities and reducing unemployment. Diversifying the state’s economy, especially in agriculture, technology, and tourism, is a priority.
2. Education and Skill Development: Recognizing the importance of education, Ambassador Okojie aims to improve the quality of education in Edo State. This includes enhancing educational infrastructure, promoting vocational training, and ensuring access to quality education for all.
3. Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equity: A champion of women’s rights, Ambassador Okojie is determined to empower women in Edo State by providing them with opportunities for leadership and economic self-sufficiency. Her goal is to bridge gender disparities and promote gender equity in all sectors.
4. Infrastructure Development: Addressing the state’s infrastructure needs is a top priority. Ambassador Okojie intends to invest in road construction, healthcare facilities, and other vital infrastructure projects to enhance the overall quality of life for Edo State’s residents.
5. Healthcare Improvement: Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right. Ambassador Okojie is committed to improving healthcare services in Edo State by investing in modern healthcare facilities, promoting preventive healthcare, and ensuring access to affordable and quality medical care for all residents.
6. Cultural Heritage Preservation: Edo State boasts a rich cultural heritage, and Ambassador Okojie is determined to preserve and promote it. She intends to support cultural events, heritage sites, and tourism initiatives that celebrate the state’s cultural diversity.
7. Good Governance and Accountability: Transparent and accountable governance is a cornerstone of Ambassador Okojie’s vision. She aims to eradicate corruption, streamline government processes, and ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of the people.
8. Security and Safety: Ensuring the safety and security of Edo State’s residents is paramount. Ambassador Okojie plans to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat crime and create a secure environment for all.
9. Youth Empowerment: Recognizing the potential of the youth, Ambassador Okojie intends to provide opportunities for skill development, training, and entrepreneurship. She believes that the youth are the future of Edo State and will support initiatives that harness their potential.
10. Environmental Sustainability: Edo State’s natural beauty and resources are invaluable. Ambassador Okojie will focus on sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and environmental protection to ensure that future generations can also enjoy the state’s natural riches.
As a visionary leader in the corporate sector, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie is committed to job creation through public–private partnerships, trade incentives, and support for marginalized businesses. Her focus on providing opportunities for businesses to thrive reflects her dedication to sustainable development and progress in the state.
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:
Articulating and Communicating Vision: She excels in expressing a clear and compelling vision for organizations, aligning stakeholders towards common goals.
Strategic Planning: Her strategic planning expertise ensures that organizations are well-prepared to adapt to changing environments and achieve their objectives.
Team Building: She values building strong, cohesive teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
Decision-Making: Her well-balanced decision-making considers both short-term and long-term consequences, ensuring the best interests of the organization.
Performance Management: She optimizes performance within organizations, implementing effective performance management systems.
Strategic Partnerships: She recognizes the importance of forming strategic partnerships to achieve organizational goals.
Change Management: She skillfully manages change within organizations, ensuring effective transitions.
Innovation and Creativity: She encourages innovation and creativity within organizations.
Financial Acumen: She has a strong understanding of financial management and budgeting, ensuring financial health.
Trade and Investment Expertise: Her background in trade and investment equips her with knowledge to foster economic growth.
Media and Cultural Promotion: Her platform promotes cultural exchange, understanding, and the arts.
Diplomatic Skills: Her representation of Nigeria on the global stage demonstrates her diplomatic capabilities.
Environmental Advocacy: Her commitment to environmental sustainability supports conservation and protection efforts.
Advocacy for Critical Issues: She actively opposes harmful practices and advocates for vulnerable populations.
Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s extensive network, well-established partnerships, ongoing collaborations, and strategic alliances span diverse sectors and stakeholders. These connections include:
Investors: Her connections with investors can provide Edo State with access to potential sources of funding for critical development projects, spurring economic growth, infrastructure development, and job creation.
Business Communities: Ambassador Princess Asha’s engagement with business communities can foster an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and business growth within Edo State, leading to increased economic activities locally and internationally.
Educational Institutions: Collaborations with educational institutions can enhance the state’s educational infrastructure, promote research and innovation, and equip the local workforce with the skills needed for the modern job market.
Cultural Organizations: Partnering with cultural organizations can help preserve and promote Edo State’s rich cultural heritage, attracting cultural tourism and contributing to the local economy.
US Governors, Senators, Legislators: Her interactions with US political leaders at the state and federal levels can open doors for advocacy and support for Edo State’s development initiatives, including securing partnerships, investments, and resources.
State of Maryland: Ambassador Princess Asha’s connections within the state government and local communities can facilitate collaboration between Maryland and Edo State, covering areas of mutual interest.
African Communities in the Diaspora: Ambassador Princess Asha’s engagement with African communities in the diaspora can extend Edo State’s reach globally, leading to investments, cultural exchanges, and contributions to the state’s development.
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:
Hon. Mildred Crump, Council President, Newark, New Jersey
Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Newark, New Jersey
Sir Emeka Offor, Chairman Chrome Group
Barrister Oladipo Okpeseyi, Senior Advocate of Nigeria
Mr. Rob Brunner, VP Arik Airlines, USA
Chief Edem Duke, former Hon. Minister of Culture Tourism and National Orientation, Abuja, Former Mayor, Kasim Reed Atlanta, GA
Ambassador Geoffrey Teneilabe, former Amb. /Consul General, Nigeria Consulate of Atlanta, GA, Lt. Governor Boyd Kevin Rutherford of Maryland State
Prince Kazeem Eletu-Odibo of Kazeem Royal
Sia Finoh, CEO, Education for Africa
A trailblazer in revolutionizing online talk show and blog radio, 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 Nigerian 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:
THINKWEST Initiative (TWI): As Co-chairman, she plays a pivotal leadership role in an organization dedicated to driving good governance and development in Nigeria.
International Forum for Sickle-Celled in the Diaspora (INFORSID): Her board membership reflects her dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and supporting individuals affected by sickle cell disease within the diaspora.
Women Empowerment Network (WOENET): Her membership aligns with her commitment to empowering women and fostering gender equality.
National Alliance of Medical Auditing Specialists (NAMAS): Membership reflects her engagement in medical billing and auditing practices.
American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC): Her membership underscores her dedication to healthcare coding and billing standards.
American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA): Her affiliation with AHIMA demonstrates her commitment to healthcare data quality and patient privacy.
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS): Membership reflects her involvement in industrial security practices.
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.
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.
Princess Asha transformational leadership style, strategic planning, experience, and dedication to teamwork position her as an inspiring force driving positive change and empowerment in Edo State.
Her credibility and international influences is an added value, which will bring support of indigenes in the diaspora and the international community, to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of the people and make Edo State a beacon of progress and prosperity in terms of investment opportunities and development, if elected to office.
Gifted Cole Chiori, is an undefeated professional boxer based in the United States- originally from Nigeria. Gifted is a welterweight fighter, with a current record of 11-0. He has fought professionally In Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and the United States.
His last bout, was internationally televised by Super Sports from Accra, Ghana, and was attended by President John Mahama, and over 25,000 spectators. The fight was stopped in the 6th round, as his opponent could not continue.
Gifted won the official Intercontinental WBF Title by way of knockout on November 9, 2013, against German opponent Tom Reiche. The self- promoted event in Atlanta, was graced by thousands of his Nigerian supporters and dignitaries from all over the United States. He has earned the respect and admiration of fans all around the world, and continues to entertain them with his unique style of fighting. Chiori was also honored by the Minister of Works Honorable Arc Mike Onolememen at the prestigious ‘Face Award USA’ for Sports Athlete of the Year in Atlanta, GA, and has many U.S. based Nigerian fans who greatly support his efforts.
Gifted is currently training to fight his next opponent this July in Australia and plans to promote several more fights before the end of the year in the United States, and possibly in Nigeria. He sees the potential for the growth of boxing as a major source of entertainment, and has his eyes set on bringing boxing back to Nigeria in a big way. His campaign to ‘Bring Vegas to Nigeria’, will require stakeholders that share in his vision to make Nigeria a desirable location to breed and promote elite professional boxing.
Gifted is proud to continuously provide guidance for less fortunate youth through his charity work in Nigeria. He has single- handedly funded and promoted boxing clinics and tournaments for at risk youth, and does his part to provide them with the necessary equipment and facilities to sharpen their skills in boxing. Many of the participants are being groomed by Chiori’s team for a career in boxing, with hopes of bringing them to train and fight in America in the form of an exchange program. Chiori is looking forward to partner with anyone who shares in his vision, and welcomes all support.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
For more info about Cole contact us at afriqtalk57@yahoo.com or visit our contact page.
Called to serve his country, Henry Ayo Abimbola is running to be the next house of representative in Ogun State, Nigeria. Election will be held on Sat, March 28, 2015. Henry Ayo Abimbola is a native of Ijebu Remo origin who was born at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria on April 20, 1964 to High Chief Festus Olatilewa Abimbola and Princess Agnes Okalo Momodu. His early childhood was mostly spent between Lagos and Edo States. He attended his primary school education at Government School Irrua, Edo State as well as Government Demonstration School, Gbaja, Surulere, Lagos.
He received his ordinary levels secondary education at the Annunciation Catholic College, Irrua and completed his advanced levels secondary education at Parkadale Collegiate Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He joined the United States Navy’s elite Hospital Corpsman career field where he received medical and hospital management training before he attended the United States Marine Corps’ Field Medical Service School (FMSS) in order to serve with U.S. Marines of the Fleet Marine Force (FMF). He later attended the Joint-service Defence Medical Readiness Training Institute (DMRTI) for specialized Instructor training on Combat Casualty Care Course (C4), and served as a Joint-service C-4 Instructor, from where he later retired from active duty status into veteran status. He has trained and variously worked in the sociological, medical management, and public health fields.
He attended Georgia Perimeter College and Texas Southern University to study Health Information Management. A graduate of Saint Leo University in the USA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, his leadership, management and analysis expertise in government and healthcare sector spans two decades; including prior service with the former National Provident Fund Management Board in Nigeria in the mid to late 80s. An avid social commentator, freelance columnist, writer, and civil society leader, he has authored numerous pro-democracy features published Online. He is on the Board of three US-based civic organizations, and he is founder and president of a US-based national non-profit Veteran Service Organization, which operates shelters for homeless U.S. military veterans.
He is also the founder of International Reform Order of Nigeria (IRON), a Texas-based political think tank. He currently serves as executive director of Citizens for Nigeria (CFN), a civil society organization which operates and runs Againstbabangida.com web site. Ayo currently manages War Casualties Tracking (WCT) programs for the United States Marine Corps’ Wounded, Ill and Injured Tracking Systems as a Recovery Care Coordinator by way of Armed Forces Services Corporation (AFSC) in San Antonio, Texas, U.S.A. Ayo’s administrative, organizational and analytic skills will bear positively at the Nigerian National Assembly, on his people in Ogun State, and on Nigerian nation as a whole. Ayo is happily married to Mariam Bukola Abimbola (nee Lekuti), and they are blessed with children.
There are millions of faceless people whose lives have been impacted by AIDS/HIV, especially in Africa. Yet there are some who believe that AIDS is a hoax. An estimated 33 million people worldwide were living with HIV in 2007, of whom 67% were in sub-Saharan Africa. The Region also accounts for 75% of global AIDS deaths. Approximately 9.1 million people were newly infected with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa in 2007.
Information about the epidemic and its impact on the people of Africa are often not told, because Aid meant to combat the spread of HIV and poverty in Africa has been complicated by corruption among political leaders with a few notable exceptions. The prevention measures have been hampered in Africa due to traditional beliefs, political and religious authorities. Both Muslim and Christian leaders found prevention campaigns such as condom promotion difficult to reconcile with their teachings.
In Sub-Saharan Africa women are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic in comparison with men, with the proportion hovering around 60% over the last five years and nearly 90% of all children living with HIV/AIDS. The HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa is occurring in a context of increased poverty, food insecurity, indebtedness, poor economic performance, gender inequality, gender-based violence, conflicts, natural disasters, ignorance, fear, stigma and discrimination.
Almost invariably, the burden of coping rests with women. Upon a family member becoming ill, the role of women as carers, income-earners and housekeepers is stepped up. They are often forced to step into roles outside their homes as well. Older people are also heavily affected by the epidemic; many have to care for their sick children and are often left to look after orphaned grandchildren.
It is hard to overemphasise the trauma and hardship that children are forced to bear. As parents and family members become ill, children take on more responsibility to earn an income, produce food, and care for family members. More children have been orphaned by AIDS in Africa than anywhere else. Many children are now raised by their extended families and some are even left on their own in child-headed households.
The toll of HIV and AIDS on households can be very severe. It is often the poorest sectors of society that are most vulnerable. In many cases, AIDS causes the household to dissolve, as parents die and children are sent to relatives for care and upbringing. AIDS strips families of their assets and income earners, further impoverishing the poor.
The epidemic adds to food insecurity in many areas, as agricultural work is neglected or abandoned due to household illness. HIV and AIDS are having a devastating effect on the already inadequate supply of teachers in African countries. The illness or death of teachers is especially devastating in rural areas where schools depend heavily on one or two teachers.
In many countries of sub-Saharan And West Africa, AIDS is erasing decades of progress in extending life expectancy. The biggest increase in deaths has been among adults aged between 20 and 49 years. AIDS is hitting adults in their most economically productive years and removing the very people who could be responding to the crisis. As access to treatment is slowly expanded throughout the continent, millions of lives are being extended and hope is being given to people who previously had none. Unfortunately though, the majority of people in need of treatment are still not receiving it, and campaigns to prevent new infections are lacking in many areas.
Prevention efforts are beginning to bear fruit, with indications of behavior change and declines in HIV prevalence rates in a number of high-burden countries. Many countries have also made significant progress in expanding access to ART. About 2.1 million people were receiving antiretroviral therapy in the Region at the end of 2007, and regional coverage increased from barely 2% in 2003 to 30% in 2007. Despite this significant progress in ART there is still need to cover all the people in need and improve some areas such as HTC and PMTCT.
The key challenges to be addressed are:
Scaling up of key HIV prevention intervention, particularly HIV testing and counseling (HCT) including Provider Initiated Testing and Counseling.
Increasing access to affordable treatment and care in order to sustain the achievements so far on ART.
Increasing Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) as the coverage of these interventions is still unacceptably low (34 % in 2007).
Identifying innovative approaches to respond to the high levels of HIV discordant couples.
Introducting male circumcision in countries where this procedure is not currently practiced requires well-thought strategies, capacity building efforts and good communication strategies.
Weak health care delivery systems that are hindering expansion of quality HIV care and treatment services to lower level health facilities.
Ensuring sustainable financing for key priority interventions in order for Member States have to achieve Universal Access.
In July 2001, the National Institute of Health (NIH) of the United States Government released its report on the “Scientific Analysis on Condom Effectiveness for STD prevention”. The report, which is an analysis of 130 studies conducted over some decades, differentiates between condom efficacy (the protection which the users would enjoy under ideal conditions, this depending primarily on the properties of the condom) and condom effectiveness (protection offered under actual usage; dependent on the characteristics of the device and its user).
The conclusions of the report? Apart from Gonorrhea (in men and not for women) for which there was some risk reduction, condom use for Chlamydia, trichomoniasis, chancroid, syphilis, genital herpes and Human papilomavirus showed no clinical proof of effectiveness from the available studies (more studies are necessary to determine its effectiveness). According to the studies, “condoms provided an 85% reduction in HIV/AIDS transmission risk when infection rates were compared in always versus never users”What about the remaining 15%? Is that percentage alright for you? Since the condom has not been sufficiently proven to be effective in preventing some of the common STDs listed above, there is an added risk of infection with HIV if there is an STD present.
In view of the findings of the report, the CDC has made some changes in its fact sheet, which says amongst other things that “The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and you know is uninfected. For persons whose sexual behaviors place them at risk for STDs, correct and consistent use of the male latex condom can reduce the risk of STD transmission.
However, no protective method is 100 percent effective, and condom use cannot guarantee absolute protection against any STD . In order to achieve the protective effect of condoms, they must be used correctly and consistently. Incorrect use can lead to condom slippage or breakage, thus diminishing their protective effect. Inconsistent use, e.g., failure to use condoms with every act of intercourse, can lead to STD transmission because transmission can occur with a single act of intercourse”
In our society today, is it possible for a normal, healthy person to resist sexual urges until marriage and then maintain a commitment to faithful, monogamous marriage? Can an entire nation dramatically reduce its AIDS incidence rates largely as a result of abstinence before marriage and fidelity within marriage? The answer is ‘”YES WE CAN”
AfriQtalk Diaspora 
You must be logged in to post a comment.