Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the appointment of Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor as the Director-General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, signaling a renewed focus on engaging Edo indigenes abroad for the state’s growth.
The announcement was officially made by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., on behalf of the Edo State Government.
Dr. Ogboro-Okor, a UK-trained Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, boasts a distinguished career spanning medicine, humanitarian efforts, and global advocacy. Her expertise extends to medical simulation, and she is recognized as both a prolific writer and a Global Goodwill and United Nations Eminent Ambassador.
“This appointment reflects the Governor’s commitment to harnessing the potential of our diaspora community,” stated Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq. “Dr. Ogboro-Okor’s extensive experience and deep understanding of diaspora issues make her the ideal candidate to lead the agency.”
Dr. Ogboro-Okor’s impressive academic background includes degrees from the University of Benin, the University of Edinburgh, and Sheffield Hallam University. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Law and Criminology at Sheffield Hallam University, specializing in the critical areas of illegal migration, human trafficking, and contemporary slavery.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Dr. Ogboro-Okor already holds key leadership positions, including leading the Edo Diaspora Working Group and the Edo State Focus Group Worldwide. These roles have positioned her as a central figure in fostering collaboration between the Edo State government and its diaspora population.
The appointment is expected to strengthen the state’s efforts to attract investment, skills, and resources from Edo indigenes living abroad, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Edo State. The government anticipates that Dr. Ogboro-Okor’s leadership will usher in a new era of engagement and partnership with the Edo diaspora community.