PROFILES OF 2024 AMAZONS
Vivian Chimezie – Azubuike
Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike is the Director General of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, where she oversees the overall direction and operations of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping. She is vested with the responsibility of promoting sustainable
practices, fostering international collaborations, and advocating for policies that enhance the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry on the global stage.
Vivian is a distinguished professional with a diverse background in business management, organization, particularly within the maritime sector.
Her leadership at the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping suggests a commitment to furthering the interests of the Nigerian maritime industry, which is crucial for the country’s economic growth and positioning in international trade.
Recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce, Vivian advocates for educational programmes and training initiatives within the maritime sector. She envisions a workforce equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the evolving shipping landscape. These underscore her passion for capacity building, and the reason she mooted the idea for the development of capacity building programme at the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping in the year 2007. In the year 2022
With prior experience as the Acting Director General at the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, Vivian demonstrated her capabilities in fostering international business relations, advocacy, C2C networks and trade partnerships. Her role there mostly involved promoting economic ties and collaborations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike is also known for her role as a Personal Growth Strategy Coach, as a trained emotional intelligence specialist. This reflects her dication to personal development and the empowerment of individuals to reach their full potential.
Vivian is a member of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria Chapter; she serves on the Environmental Committee of WISTA International, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA), Young Director Forum (YDF) of the Institute of Directors (IOD), Advisory Member Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME), a certified Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Specialist, a mental health advocate, and a United Nations SDG 14 advocate, and more.
As the Director General of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping. She has continued to contribute to the development and growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector. One of her many accomplishments was organizing the first IMO International Day for Women in Maritime conference in Nigeria, which had in participation, two international Guests, the first female President of the World Maritime University Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, WISTA International President at the time, Ms. Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, who is also the Co- CEO of Tototheo Maritime.
Vivian holds a B.Tech in Transport Management Technology (maritime) from the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) (Human Resources) from the Lagos State University, and a mini MBA from Tekedia institute ( US recognized IT solution based institution).
Vivian’s career trajectory showcases a blend of leadership, human resources, international business acumen, and a deep commitment to both the maritime industry and personal growth.
She is happily married with kids.
Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024
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Blessing Ngozi Osakwe-Ogo (JP)
Blessing Ngozi Osakwe-Ogo (Nee Ndokwu) was born to the family of Pa Oputa Ndokwu and Madam Cecilia Ndokwu (both late) of Umudei Royal family, Oguta, Imo State.
Osakwe-Ogo attended Oguta Girls Primary School, and St. Michael’s Secondary School, Orsu-Obodo, Oguta.
She worked as a clerk with Nigerian Ports Authority for Eighteen (18) months before gaining admission into Rivers State University of Science and Technology in 1984. In 1988, she graduated as the best student in Bachelor of Science in Physics (Physical Electronics Option).
After graduation, she proceeded for her National Youth Service and did her primary assignment with Radio Niger, Mina and later with Mikes Electronics, Lagos.
Blessing Osakwe-Ogo desiring to be independent began a business immediately after her NYSC. She was the Managing Director of Ngo-Charles Ventures Limited. In addition, while in business, she registered for ICAN examination. The only examination that not only humbled her, but also brought her closer to God. She got chartered in 2005, admitted as an Associate member in 2006 and a Fellow in 2017. In 2005, she was admitted as a full member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered).
Due to unfriendly business climate, Mrs. Osakwe-Ogo decided to go into paid employment. She joined Nigerian Shippers Council in 2003 where she works till date.
Reading being a hobby to her, she enrolled for her Master’s Degree with Lagos State University where she obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA Marketing) in 2009.
In 2014, she became a Chartered Forensic Accountant (CFA), after passing the requisite examination.
While in 2020, she obtained Advanced Diploma in Logistics & Transport, in 2021, she became a member of Chartered Institute of Transport Administration, and in 2023, she obtained her MSc in Project Management from Lagos State University.
Since becoming a Chartered Accountant, she has been a very active member in the activities of the Institute both at the ICAN, District and Society of Women Accountant (SWAN) levels;
She has served in various committees in ICAN, was the 23rd Chairman of the ICAN Lagos & Mainland District from 2017-2018; and currently the 1st National Vice Chairperson of the Society of Women Accounts of Nigeria (SWAN).
Osakwe-Ogo’s brilliance and leadership qualities are very evident. Little wonder she was the Best female student from St. Michael’s Secondary school, Orsu-Obodo, Oguta; Best Graduating Student in Physics, Physical Electronics Option from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, 1988
Osakwe-Ogo, was married to Late Engr. Charles Uchenna Osakwe-Ogo. The marriage is blessed with a son, Chukwuebuka James Osakwe-Ogo.
We present to you Blessing Osakwe-Ogo as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024
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HON. GINIKA FLORENCE-TOR
Amb. Mrs. Ginika Florence -Tor, a native of Amoli Enyimba community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, is a renowned TV personality, Media Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker, Life-Coach and Brand Management expert with a proven track record in income generation strategy and planning. Even though she is a power house in Events Management, Brand Strategy, and TV programming, she further obtained a Degree in Law (LL.B Honours) and is currently pursuing her LLM at Baze University, Abuja.
Known affectionately as “Ginika” by her friends, she is a dedicated achiever who excels in every endeavor she undertakes. With a commitment to continuous learning, she is an Alumni of Harvard Kennedy School of Government, where she earned a verified certificate in Leadership: Creating Public Value. Additionally, she is currently enrolled in a certified program on Building Stakeholders Value at the University of Cambridge. She has also actively participated in various life-changing training programs and summits, including Entrepreneurship advancement in Leading Economy by Southern Barter Club USA, Collaborations and Business Development by Georgia Manufacturing Alliance USA, and advanced Leadership Program by GOTNI Leadership Institute.
Ginika’s career highlights in event management are laudable. She successfully managed the Enugu State Fiesta from 2013 to 2015, staged the inaugural UPWF wrestling championship in Lagos in 2012, and organized the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Biannual Conference in Makurdi in 2010, among other notable events. Her exceptional organizational skills were showcased in various projects, including the Trade Union Triennial Delegate Conference and Awards & Investors Forum in the United States of America.
Her foray into politics began with a resounding open declaration in January 2018, garnering significant support and recognition within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Within a short span, she rose to prominence in Enugu State and contested for the position of Federal House of Representatives, eventually emerging as the Deputy Governorship Candidate for Enugu State. Ginika now serves as the Federal Commissioner Representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission, appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2020. Her contributions to her political party the All Progressives Congress, have been marked by competence, reliability, and capacity, evident in her roles across various party committees and activities.
This dynamic young woman has contributed significantly to the betterment of society through her purpose-driven initiatives and sits on the boards of many companies. It is in recognition of her contributions that she has been recognized with several deserving awards by different bodies/organizations at different times which include: UPWF Heart of Gold 2009, Jubilee Publisher of the year 2010, Jove Female Publisher of the year 2010, UPWF Media Company of the year 2011, Spiral Best Lifestyle Magazine 2011,Zarephat Passion Award 2011, Heritage Style Award 2011, United Nations Ambassador for Peace Award 2011, African Descent Award for Best Female Publisher 2012, Success Most Outstanding Publisher of the Year 2013, Face of Democracy Special Recognition Award 2013, AdadiOraNma 1 of Amoli (Honorary Chieftaincy Title), Distinguished Service Award by Enugu State Fiesta Management 2014, Capital Territory Advancement Award (CTAA) – Role Model to the Female Child 2014, Women On Fire Power Of Service Award 2015, Rotary Club Excellence Award 2015, African Diaspora Honorary Award 2015,Inspiration Hope Alive Personality 2015,African Heritage Amazon Per Excellence 2016, Outstanding CEO awards 2016, Young Entrepreneur Award 2016,Miss Ambassador for Peace Icon of Peace Award 2017, Miss Peace Woman of Honour Award 2017,Hall of Fame Personality of the year Award 2017, MAAFA Woman of Honour Award 2017, MBGA Role Model to Women Award 2017, World Habitat Humanitarian, Global Excellence, Women Empowerment and Community Development Award 2018, Recognition Awards for the Support to Students and Youth Development by Bingham University 2018, Award of Excellence in Advocacy Right for Women Empowerment 2018. Award for the support to Students and Youth Development by Bingham University, 2019, Omaluegwuoku 1 of Awka by Igwe Gibson Nwosu CON, Eze Uzu II , Obi of Awka 2021, Award of excellence in Advocacy rights for Women empowerment, 2022, Hope Alive Awards by MaxMen Advocacy 2023, Icon of Societal Dev. In Public Service/Human Capital Development by Nig. House of Dream Parliament 2023, Ugochizuo Ochakee 1 of Ndigbo Ghana ,Gender Champion of the Year (Female) by African Advancement Forum and today the winner of Public Servant of the Year 2023 by Igbere TV, Organizers of Leadership Excellence Award
Hon. Amb. Chief Mrs. Ginika Florence- Tor Nee Ijeomah is a wife and mother of four children, a philanthropist, a United Nations Peace & Change Ambassador, and the former MD/CEO of Accolade Media Co. Ltd. Her leadership extends to roles as CEO of Ginetz Business Ventures Ltd, Director of Primefield Associates Nig. Ltd, and Presenter of the Accolade Lifestyle & Events TV Show. She is also the Publisher of Accolade Int’l Magazine and the visionary behind initiatives such as Mrs. Accolade Pageant, A Time Of Praise (ATOP), and Women of Worth Africa (WOW Africa), among others. As the Founder/President of Omaluegwuoku Progressive Initiative and Secretary of Project 744, her commitment to community development and empowerment remains unwavering.
Hon. Ginika Florence- Tor stands as a beacon of exemplary leadership, making significant strides in both the private and public sectors. Her unwavering dedication to service and empowerment has earned her respect and accolades, and she continues to inspire positive change and progress in the society.
We present to you, gentlemen and ladies,Amb.Chief Ginika Florence- Tor as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024
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Hope Afoke Orivri
Dr. Hope Afoke Orivri holds a PhD in Development Communication from the prestigious University of Lagos, where she also had her first two degrees.
She is a specialist in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) studies, with a primary interest in water and sanitation governance and sustainability in urban slums, with priority attention to the health of under-five children.
Dr. Orivri started her journalism career as a researcher/reporter with Advertising News, which was owned and managed by Nigeria’s renowned advertising scholar, Dr. Chris Doghudge. She made her marks in this terrain rising to become the Principal coordinator for conferences and advertising training programmes that trained professionals across blue chip companies in Nigeria.
While undertaking her Master’s Degree studies, she opted for a job with the Pidgin English Service of Radio Nigeria, Ikoyi Lagos. This would help give her practical knowledge and experience in Broadcast Journalism, her major course at the time. Her duties cut across writing news items and analysis in pidgin English language. She produced and broadcast family programmes, particularly “For Woman Dem”, a weekend magazine programme engaging issues that women faced in their daily lives. The programme grew bigger due to her incorporating a feedback section that gave listeners the opportunity to share their experiences and asked questions to address their concerns.
Soon, she left broadcasting for print journalism and worked briefly for the Sun Newspaper, the Compass Newspaper as well as the Moment Newspaper where she was the Head of Arts and culture Desk. After four years on the position, she moved on to the corporate world as a communication consultant for an energy services company in Lagos. She was able to give the company a good mirror image through series of well-structured Public Relations communication engagements with its identified publics. Till date, the company maintains its newsletter as a strong voice showcasing its value contribution to the sector where it plays.
Her passion for journalism encouraged her to take up another job with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) as a management-level staff. While with NAN, Dr. Orivri worked as a senior news reporter and covered Education, Science and Technology, Agric and Environment as well as Maritime. She became a news desk editor and wrote series of editorials on the maritime industry.
Orivri left the employ of the Agency to enable her to give full attention to her doctoral studies at the time. In July 2023, her Thesis titled ‘ Utilisation of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Behaviour Change Messages Among Mothers of Under-five Children in Lagos Urban Slums’ was adjudged winner in the maiden Unilag Three Minutes (3MT) Thesis competition, where Ph.D. candidates present a summary of their study in just three minutes. Emerging the winner earned an all-expense paid research travel to the University of Dundee in the UK.
She successfully defended her Thesis at the University of Lagos School of Post-Graduate Studies in December 2023, before a panel of scholars, with an external examiner from the University of Ibadan.
She is the Founder/CEO of Onepage Africa Media – publisher of maritime-focused reports including ‘Life At Sea’, ‘At The Marina Today’ and ‘Maritime History’. Dr. Hope Orivri is married and has young adult children.
Gentlemen and ladies, we present to you Dr. Hope Orivri as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024.
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Juliana Obiageli Saka
Juliana Obiageli Saka is an accomplished professional with a Masters in Transport and Planning from Lagos State University. Her expertise extends to Maritime and Port Security, with certificates from the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel and the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport in Egypt. She has undergone specialized training in Port Operations in Belgium and Port Regulations, Compliance, and Performance in South Africa.
Currently, she is undertaking a Doctorate degree in Transport Management from the University of Port Harcourt. As a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Nigerian Institute of Shipping (NIS), Mrs. Saka has made significant contributions to the field. She played a pivotal role as the Financial Secretary of the Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) and is an active member of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA).
She is the National Female Representative in the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Nigeria. Currently serving as the Chief Operations Officer at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Juliana Obiageli Saka balances her professional achievements with her roles as a mother and wife. Her dedication to the maritime and logistics industry is evident in her multifaceted experience and contributions to various professional organizations.
Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you Juliana Obiageli Saka as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024
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Igbokwe Nneka Doris (FNIPR)
Igbokwe Nneka Doris (Mrs.), (Nee-Aninwezi) was born on 18th October, 1974 to the family of Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Osita Aninwezi of Imezi-Owa Town in Ezeagu L.G.A. She is the second (2nd) child of a family of seven (7). Nneka is married to Professor Igbokwe Casmir Onwuaso. And their marriage is blessed with two (2) children.
Igbokwe Nneka started her educational carrier at Central School Aguoba-Owa, (FSLC-1980-1985), from where she proceeded to Army Day secondary school, Awkunanaw, Enugu, (SSCE-1986-1991). She gained admission into the prestigious Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, State, where she bagged an HND in Mass Communication (1993-1998). She did her NYSC from 1999-2000. She further proceeded to Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo, State, for her PGD in Maritime Transport Technology, (2005-2007).Igbokwe Nneka continued in her educational carrier as she again gained admission into Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso, Oyo State, for Masters in Transport Management (2007-2010). She bagged an Associate graduate Diploma in the Certified Institute of Shipping (2007).She is also a member of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. And she became a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (August, 2022).
She started her career in the defunct Joint Dock Labour Industrial Council (JODLIC) in August 2000 as an Information Officer 11. She then joined NIMASA after the merger of the defunct National Maritime Authority (NMA) and Joint Maritime Labour Industrial Council (JOMALIC) in 1996. Since then she has been in NIMASA. Presently she is an Assistant Director in Public Relations Unit, NIMASA (2020 till date).
Nneka is skilled in Leadership, Emotional Intelligent, Communications, Writing and has to be a Good Team Player.
Her hubbies include: listening to music, reading, playing of basket- ball and writing.
We present to you Nneka Doris Igbokwe as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024
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Thelma Williams
Chief Superintendent of Customs Thelma Williams psc(+) was the first female Public Relations Officer of Murtala Mohammed Airport Command. A post she held diligently, while discharging her assigned tasks efficiently and effectively.
Due to her hard work, she was awarded a “Certificate of Merit” by World Customs Organization( WCO) “For rendering exceptional service to the international community in Nigeria during international customs day in 2014.
CSC T Williams also made history when she became the first female Staff Officer General in the same Command before it was unbundled.
In 2020, she attended the prestigious Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, where she excelled in her studies and was decorated with Passed Staff Course (psc) after completion of the course. She was later retained as a Member of Directing Staff in the College from 2021- 2023. After the Course of tour, she was decorated with psc(+) dagar.
She is presently serving at the Customs Headquarters.
Ladies and gentlemen, we have before us CSC Thelma Williams as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024.
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Sarah Kwa’ala Ballah
Mrs. Sarah Kwa’ala Ballah is the Assistant General Manager(AGM), Corporate and Strategic Communications(C&SC) of the Nigerian Ports Authority(NPA).
Sarah Kwa’ala Ballah was born on October 15th 1966 to Capt Buba Yakubu(Rtd) and Mrs Liatu Buba Yakubu.
She had her Primary Education at the Army Children School, Zaria from 1971-1977 and her Secondary school Education at the Federal Government Girls College Bakori from 1977-1982.
She enrolled for A levels where she sat for the interim Joint Matriculations Board Exams at the College of Preliminary Studies Yola, from 1982-1984.
She proceeded to the University of Maiduguri where she obtained a degree in English Language From 1984-1987.
After the mandatory NYSC programme, she began a career in journalism first as a TV broadcaster before she moved to the print media and practiced journalism until she became the Editor, Features at the ‘Today Newspapers’ in Kaduna.
Mrs Ballah Joined the services of the NPA as a Public Relations Manager in 2001 and has risen to her present position through hard work, focus, professionalism and commitment.
Mrs Sarah Ballah has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH),Ogbomoso,Oyo State and a Diploma in Ministry from Loveworld Incorporated.
She has attended various professional courses both in Nigeria and overseas and obtained certificates in Journalism Excellence, Public Relations, Management and Administration.
She is a member of the NIPR, a member of the Institute of Cost Management, A Fellow of Institute of Administrators amongst several others
She is a Pastor, happily married to Pastor Ballah and is blessed with three brilliant and intelligent children.
Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you Mrs. Sarah Kwa’ala Ballah as MMS Inspired Amazon 2024.
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Bunmi Falana
Mrs. Bunmi Falana epitomizes the essence of excellence and determination in the realm of the marine industry. She is a native of Ekiti State in Nigeria, Mrs. Falana’s journey to prominence is characterized by her unwavering commitment to professional growth and societal impact.
Possessing a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, Mrs. Falana started her
professional career as a Sales Specialist in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector. Her natural aptitude for strategic thinking and her aptitude for navigating challenging situations swiftly propelled her into pivotal roles within the industry.
However, Mrs. Falana’s career trajectory was not confined to the private sector alone. Between 2011 and 2013, she dedicated her expertise to serving the Lagos State
Government and Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area. Her contributions during this period were instrumental in shaping strategic initiatives crucial to the future development of the state.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a desire to excel, Mrs. Falana moved into the private sector, specifically the Construction and Civil
Engineering industry. Here, she assumed the role of Health Safety and Procurement Officer, leveraging her diverse skill set to ensure operational excellence and safety compliance.
Currently serving as a Compliance Manager in the Marine and Oil Servicing Industry, Mrs. Falana’s impact resonates far beyond her professional duties. Her dedication to upholding industry standards and promoting best practices is underscored by her role as the Welfare Secretary for the Nigerian Ship Owners Association.
Mrs. Bunmi Falana’s commitment to excellence is further evidenced by her pursuit of continuous learning and professional development. She has earned certifications and certificates as a Certified Designated Person Ashore (DPA), NEBOSH, Project Management Professional, and Health and Safety Officer, validating her expertise in diverse facets of the industry.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Mrs. Falana is the Chief Executive Officer of Marine Virgo, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership acumen. In her leisure time, she finds solace in activities such as swimming, singing, and indulging in music, showcasing a balanced approach to life.
Mrs. Bunmi Falana’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals and a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to excellence in the marine industry continues to pave the way for innovation and progress, leaving an indelible mark on the industry landscape.