Born in Uromi, Amb Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie was raised in Benin City, Edo State, as the daughter of Prince Albert Okojie, OON, a former parliamentary secretary to the minister of finance, founding member of the Action Group, commissioner and house of representative during the midwestern region in the era of Awolowo, who was among those that moved the motion for the creation of Bendel State.

Her early education at Ebenezer Primary School and Adesuwa Grammar School in Benin City demonstrates her strong connection to her roots. After Pursuing a OND program in arts at Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, she continued her education in the United States, which reflects her determination to seek opportunities for personal and professional growth on an international level, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Health Information Management and an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Growing up in Edo State, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie developed a profound understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary people in her community. Her experiences and deep connections with the local population have afforded her valuable insights into their needs and aspirations. This profound understanding forms the heart of her mission: to eradicate hunger, poverty, and illiteracy in Edo State and create a thriving middle class through reforms, economic growth and infrastructural development.

Amb Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie, comes from a lineage of political and social leaders in Nigeria, and her family’s history is marked by significant contributions to the nation’s struggle for independence and self-governance. Her grandfather, King Ogbidi Okojie of the Uromi dynasty, stands out as a notable figure in Nigeria’s history. He is renowned for his courage and resistance against British control during the colonial era. His leadership and efforts to protect the sovereignty of his people left a lasting impact on the region and contributed to the preservation of the local culture and traditions.

Amb Princess Asha’s cousin, Chief Anthony Enahoro, played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s self-government movement. As a prominent nationalist and politician, he was instrumental in 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 as well as her cousin, Cardinal Anthony Olubunmi Okogie, who holds the distinction of being the first Esan Catholic Cardinal in Nigeria whose spiritual leadership, activism, and dedication to his faith have influenced and inspired many in the country.

Princess Asha Okojie’s deep-rooted connection to a lineage of political and social leaders in Nigeria, notably as a direct descendant of Oba Ewuare I and the sixth generation of his son, Igiesan, who left the Benin kingdom to become the first monarch of Uromi, reflects a rich heritage that has profoundly influenced her values and sense of responsibility, keeping her grounded.

Fondly referred to as Ine Edo (Mother of Edo), Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie willingly embraces the significant role of bridging tradition and modernity. She recognizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage while navigating the complexities of contemporary governance.

With a family history marked by leaders like her cousin, late Chief Anthony Enahoro and late dad, Hon. Prince Albert Okojie, who played pivotal roles in Nigeria’s history, Princess Asha stands resolute in her commitment to lead Edo State toward a new order. Her acceptance of the leadership mantle signifies a continuation of a legacy of service, activism, and dedication to community well-being.

This commitment is not only a personal endeavor but a reflection of her understanding of the evolving needs of Edo State. By embracing the responsibilities passed down through generations, Princess Asha aims to contribute to the progress, development, and positive transformation of Edo State, addressing contemporary challenges while drawing on the wisdom of tradition.

As she steps into this role, Princess Asha brings with her a unique blend of cultural heritage, modern perspectives, and a dedication to fostering positive change. Her leadership is guided by a vision that seeks to uplift the people of Edo State, creating a harmonious balance between tradition and progress in the pursuit of a better future.

Currently serving as CEO of AfriQtalk Consult, a multifaceted company specializing in media, healthcare and business consultancy, investment and trade facilitation. Her leadership has resulted in strategic collaborations, marketing partnerships, and sponsorship initiatives in both the public and private sectors.

As the founder of the US-Nigeria Legislatives and Executive Forum, she has used her platform for bringing together U.S and African state legislators, business executives, and private sector leaders to connect, share ideas, promote bilateral trade and investment, innovation, security, and good governance for the betterment of communities.

Initiator of FACE Honors and Global leadership Initiatives, a cultural organization that recognizes outstanding individual’s services, commitments, dedications, contributions, passion and influence in the global economy, entertainment, sports, culture, arts, good governance, education, research, and philanthropy, in Africa and the African diaspora. The list of past honorees, include:

• 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 and Chairman, Island Club, Nigeria
• Mr. Rob Brunner, VP Arik Airlines, USA
• Chief Edem Duke, former Hon. Minister of Culture Tourism and National Orientation, Abuja
• Mayor, Kasim Reed Atlanta, GA
• HON. ARC. Micheal Oziegbe Onoleme, former Minister of Works, Abuja
• Ambassador Geoffrey Teneilabe, former Amb. /Consul General, Nigeria Consulate of Atlanta, GA
• Lt. Governor Boyd Kevin Rutherford of Maryland State – Outstanding Leadership Impact
• Prince Kazeem Eletu-Odibo – Outstanding Nigerian Philanthropist Award, for Community Achievement in Human Development Capacity and Philanthropy and Community Recognition Award for Exceptional Leadership in Youth Empowerment.
• Chris Kehinde Nwandu, Publisher and Editor in Chief CKN News – Outstanding Online Media Personality
• Sia Finoh, CEO, Education for Africa – Outstanding African Diaspora Women in Leadership
• Sade Oshinubi Esq. UPAC, Chairwoman – Outstanding African Diaspora Women in Leadership
                                    This initiative has contributed significantly to the enrichment of cultural understanding and collaboration within Africa and the African diaspora, to mention a few.

As Vice President of the Ivorian-Nigeria Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry, she has been engaged in fact-finding investment missions and trade facilitation to Africa, including advocacy against human trafficking. In addition, she plays a critical role in enhancing trade and economic relations between Ivory Coast and Nigeria to strengthens economic ties, fosters cooperation, and paves the way for mutually beneficial business opportunities between the two nations.

Having grown up in Edo State, Amb Princess Asha Okojie understands the challenges faced by the ordinary people in the community. Her educational achievements, experiences, business acumen, and connections with the people have given her valuable insights into their needs and aspirations. This understanding forms the core of her mission to eradicate hunger, poverty, and illiteracy, combining her passion for fighting causes for women, girls, and children to improve lives has demonstrated her empathy and leadership abilities, which are evident in her commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Addressing the pressing challenges faced by the people of Edo State has shaped her sense of responsibility and instilled in her a commitment to public service as well as advocating for gender equity further showcases her dedication to the welfare of marginalized and disenfranchised groups.

Through her platform InvestEdo, Amb Princess Asha Okojie have been able to create awareness and empower the people of Edo State by providing economic opportunities, promoting education, and addressing the root causes of poverty and envisions a prosperous and inclusive future for all citizens as she bid for the office of the governorship 2024.

Before venturing into politics herself, her involvement in various organizations and advisory committees reflects her dedication to addressing critical issues. She played a crucial role behind the scenes in various political campaigns in Edo State. Her invaluable experience and understanding of the intricacies of political processes have equipped her with insights as she now stands as a front-runner in the 2024 Edo gubernatorial race.

She actively supports research into traditional alternative treatments for sickle cell disease in Africa, extending her care to orphanages, providing financial assistance to sick patients, offering nutrition and medical care to pregnant women, and providing tuition assistance to underprivileged children in Edo State, and gender equity on both national and international levels.

Princess Asha Okojie’s advocacy 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 has ensured that citizens are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities in the democratic process.

Moreover, 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. Her passion for driving positive change shines through as she explores pathways to a brighter future through informed voting.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s career journey is marked by versatility and dedication. Her early career involved roles as a publicist, supporting high-profile clients and celebrities. She was the executive producer and director of “Let’s Talk Africa,” an online blog radio and red carpet where she’s interviewed dignitaries, celebrities, and thought leaders from around the world, showcasing her commitment to cultural exchange and fostering diplomacy for mutual understanding.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie has been a trailblazer in transforming traditional television news and entertainment. Her online talk show and blog served as a powerful vehicle for raising awareness of African cultures, entertainment, music, ideological diversity, and entrepreneurial innovation, while also promoting African artists in communities throughout the United States with her extensive network.

Under her leadership, her company AfriQtalk provided media and communications consulting for the Nigerian consulate in Atlanta, Georgia. AfriQtalk co-hosted President Obama’s Young African Leaders Summit (YALI) in Atlanta in 2014 and provided coverage of President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to Washington, D.C., in 2015. The company collaborated with selected institutions such as the African Business Round Table and the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN in hosting the UN Security Conference in New York, with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo as the keynote speaker in 2015. Additionally, AfriQtalk facilitated interviews with various media outlets, including CNN, The Dr. Phil Show, and VH1 during her tenure as the media consultant for the Nigeria Consulate General office in Atlanta, GA.

Amb Princess Asha Okojie possesses a transformational leadership style that inspires and motivates others to work towards a common vision of positive change. With her extensive experience in leading organizations as well as advocating for positive change, she brings valuable insights and practical knowledge to drive transformative initiatives.

As a visionary leader in the corporate entity, Amb Princess Asha Okojie is committed to creating jobs through a public–private partnership trade and incentives to uplift marginalized businesses and providing opportunities for them to thrive, creating a path towards sustainable development and progress in the state.

With her diverse experience in executive and leadership roles, Amb Princess Asha Okojie has made a positive impact in leading organizations and people with her visionary leadership skills, articulating and communicating organization’s vision to help align stakeholders and their team towards achieving common goals as well as strategic planning, team building, decision-making, performance management, strategic partnerships, change management, innovation and creativity and financial acumen.

Her 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.

Her advocacy extends to promoting African arts, entertainment, and culture, as well as addressing critical issues such as the repatriation of stolen artifacts and the rejuvenation of heritage sites in Africa. In 2018, she was 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, highlighting her role in enhancing cultural understanding between Edo State and the U.S.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie’s advocacy efforts and dedication to serving others and making a positive impact on humanity by helping orphanage homes, pregnant women, and patients who cannot afford to pay their hospital bills, promotion of culture, entrepreneurship, and empowering women, children, and youth, including humanitarian services, have earned her recognition both locally and internationally from various organizations

In 2023 The National Union of Journalists, Edo State, acknowledged her contribution to humanity in 2024, in 2017, she was conferred UN Ambassador for her humanitarian efforts, under the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), a testament to her commitment, in 2018 she was honored as International Person of the Year, in 2015 she was received the Africa’s emerging leaders in the diaspora, in 2014, she received a recognition from Stanford Who’s Who, and Nigerian Promoters Media Personality of the Year in 2012, among others, underscoring her exceptional contributions to various fields.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie’s impressive and diverse experience in executive and leadership roles has left a significant positive impact on the organizations and people she has served. Her visionary leadership skills, strategic thinking, and effective communication have played a pivotal role in guiding these organizations towards success. Some key aspects of her leadership include:

Articulating and Communicating Vision: Ambassador Okojie excels in expressing a clear and compelling vision for organizations. She has the ability to convey this vision to stakeholders, team members, and the broader community, which helps align everyone’s efforts toward achieving common goals.

Strategic Planning: She is skilled in developing and implementing strategic plans that set organizations on a path for long-term success. Her strategic planning expertise ensures that organizations are well-prepared to adapt to changing environments and achieve their objectives.

Team Building: Ambassador Okojie understands the value of building strong, cohesive teams. Her leadership fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, enhancing team performance and productivity.

Decision-Making: Her decision-making skills are marked by a well-balanced approach that considers both short-term and long-term consequences, ensuring choices are in the best interest of the organization.

Performance Management: Ambassador Okojie is dedicated to optimizing performance within organizations, implementing effective performance management systems that drive accountability and continuous improvement.

Strategic Partnerships: She recognizes the importance of forming strategic partnerships to achieve organizational goals, establishing and nurturing relationships that contribute to growth and success.

Change Management: Ambassador Okojie is skilled in managing change within organizations, understanding that it is often necessary for growth and development, ensuring transitions are handled effectively.

Innovation and Creativity: She encourages and supports innovation and creativity within organizations, fostering an environment where new ideas are valued and embraced.

Financial Acumen: Ambassador Okojie has a strong understanding of financial management and budgeting, ensuring organizations are financially sound and able to invest in their growth and development.

Trade and Investment: With her background in trade and investment, Princess Asha Okojie possesses the knowledge and expertise necessary to foster economic growth and development within Edo State. Her understanding of business dynamics can contribute to job creation and increased economic opportunities for the state’s residents.

Entertainment Promotion: Her previous role as a Nigerian entertainer promoter and media personality underscores her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her charisma and rapport-building skills can be effectively utilized for leadership and community engagement.

Facilitator of Legislative and Executive Summits: Her role as a facilitator of legislative and executive summits underscores her steadfast commitment to inclusive governance, where ideas are exchanged for the betterment of the state. This approach promotes transparency and progress within Edo State.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s extensive and diverse skill set, coupled with her dedication to service and profound understanding of Edo State’s challenges, positions her as a dynamic leader capable of fostering economic growth, innovation, and positive change in the state.

Ambassador Princess Asha’s robust network, well-established partnerships, ongoing collaborations, and strategic alliances across various sectors and with diverse stakeholders are invaluable assets that greatly amplify her capacity to harness talent for the socioeconomic development of Edo State.

Her multifaceted background, technical, hard and soft skills, including commitment to excellence make her a transformative force for Edo State’s future prosperity, development and mutually beneficial relationships extends to the following range of entities:

Investors: Her connections with investors 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 fosters 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 helps 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 extends Edo State’s reach globally, leading to investments, cultural exchanges, and contributions to the state’s development.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s active involvement in a wide range of organizations underscores her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact across multiple spheres. Her leadership, strategic vision, and dedication shine through her contributions to the following organizations:

Co-chairman of THINKWEST Initiative (TWI) in Nigeria: In her role as Co-chairman of TWI, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie plays a pivotal leadership role in an organization dedicated to driving good governance, eradicating hunger, poverty, and illiteracy, fostering positive change and development in Nigeria. Her strategic planning and visionary leadership skills have been instrumental in shaping TWI’s initiatives, empowering individuals, and fostering human capital development.

Board Member of the International Forum for Sickle-Celled in the Diaspora (INFORSID): Serving as a board member of INFORSID reflects Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and supporting individuals affected by sickle cell disease within the diaspora community.

Member of the Women Empowerment Network (WOENET): Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s membership in WOENET demonstrates her alignment with an organization that empowers women, supporting gender equity and women’s rights.

Former Member of the Nigerian Diaspora Diagnostic & Trauma Foundation (NDDTF): Her previous involvement with NDDTF signifies a history of engaging in initiatives related to healthcare and trauma support for the diaspora community.

Member of the National Alliance of Medical Auditing Specialists (NAMAS): Her membership in NAMAS highlights her engagement in the field of medical auditing, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining high standards of healthcare excellence.

Member of the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC): Her membership in AAPC indicates her active engagement in professional coding and billing practices within the healthcare industry.

Member of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA): Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s affiliation with AHIMA demonstrates her commitment to healthcare data quality and patient information privacy.

Member of the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS): Membership in ASIS reflects Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie’s involvement in industrial security practices, showcasing her commitment to ensuring safety and security in various industrial settings.

Amb Princess Asha Okojie possesses empathy and transformational leadership skills that inspire and motivate others to work towards a common vision of positive change. Her strategic planning abilities enable her to craft comprehensive and forward-thinking strategies to address underserved and underprivileged populations in our society.

In her free time, Amb Princess Asha Okojie 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. Ambassador Princess Asha okojie-Odigie is happily married with five grown up boys.