From London to Abuja: Senator Nwoko’s Trailblazing Journey in Public Service

By Abel Johngold Orheruata

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko is a man of exceptional versatility. He has flourished as a businessman, lawyer, politician, philanthropist, sports patron, and patriotic Nigerian.

Taking a peep into his life of public service, Senator Nwoko’s service to his people was exemplified during his tenure as a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, representing the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency from 1999 to 2003. Before his return to Nigeria from the United Kingdom, he served as Secretary-General of Nigerian Legal Practitioners in the UK and as a Visiting Adviser at London’s Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

Recognised for his academic and professional contributions, he has received honorary doctorates from Commonwealth University College, Belize, and the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, Nigeria.

One of his most remarkable achievements is his pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s Paris Club loan refunds under the Obasanjo administration. Senator Nwoko’s detailed investigations uncovered discrepancies in Nigeria’s loan repayments, leading to the recovery of over $20 billion for Nigerian states. Additionally, he successfully represented Nigeria’s 774 local governments in court, securing a $3.2 billion judgment for illegal deductions.

Senator Nwoko’s expertise has drawn admiration across political divides. Notably, Labour Party’s Peter Obi was one of the first governors to consult him in London regarding Anambra State’s foreign loans. In a 2022 BBC interview, Nwoko described Obi as “frugal but a major player in the global economy,” adding that Obi would excel as Minister of the Economy under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Senator Nwoko’s humanitarian efforts shine through his campaign to eradicate malaria in Africa. In 2020, he became the first black African to visit Antarctica, launching his malaria eradication project under the Ned Nwoko Foundation. His approach focuses on vaccine development, integrated vector management, and advocacy. He sponsored the Malaria Eradication and Waste Management Bill to address the disease’s root causes.

According to him; “Research has revealed that malaria and mosquitoes are not natural to us; they can be eradicated. The first step is tackling mosquitoes, which thrive in dirty environments,”.

Senator Nwoko is also the founder of Africa’s first sports university, located in his hometown, Idumuje-Ugboko. Approved by the federal government, the university commenced academic activities in September 2022. Addressing misconceptions about sports hindering academics, he clarified: “The university is designed to advance learning in specialised areas of sports development, including management and professional coaching.”

In May 2022, Nwoko secured the PDP ticket to represent Delta North Senatorial District in the 2023 elections. Winning by a landslide, he garnered 242 votes against his closest opponent’s 67. As a senator, his portfolio includes 16 strategic committees, a testament to his competence and dedication. These include roles in Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Finance, Environment, and more.

A global perspective with local impact

on the global stage, Senator Nwoko advocates for diaspora voting rights and reparations for transatlantic slavery. Locally, he focuses on environmental sustainability, education, health, and infrastructure for his Anioma people. His commitment to non-military solutions to conflicts and his Anioma agenda demonstrate his vision for a unified and progressive Nigeria.

Described as “Odogwu,” or a great leader, Senator Nwoko embodies excellence in every endeavour. From his legislative achievements to his philanthropic initiatives, he remains a beacon of hope and progress. Unlike the fictional James Bond, Nwoko’s story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and humanity.

Optimism and a firm resolve marked Senator Ned Nwoko’s recent visit to the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge as he expressed confidence in the creation of Anioma State. Senator Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, underscores his unwavering commitment to the cause during the courtesy visit to the monarch’s palace in Asaba, just a month after the Asagba’s coronation.

The senator, who has been at the forefront of the Anioma agitation with a bill advocating its creation, revealed that the federal government and relevant authorities were receptive to the proposal. He described Anioma State as the most pressing need for Delta North people, stressing their unity across political and social divides.

Senator Nwoko sought the Asagba’s support, emphasising that his high level of education, international exposure, and Asaba’s historical pre-eminence positioned him to lead Delta’s traditional institutions effectively.

“Anioma State is important to me and will be realised through concerted efforts,” Senator Nwoko assured. “I am also committed to building lasting infrastructure and empowering our people. Projects like the Ogwashi-Uku Dam and the Okpai Power Plant remain dear to me. The dam will enhance irrigation for agriculture and supply water to over 66 Anioma communities. The power plant’s benefits are immeasurable. Additionally, I am focused on constructing the Oko Road to link several communities.”

In response, the Asagba of Asaba commended Senator Nwoko’s strategic efforts for the betterment of Anioma, Delta State, and Nigeria. He lauded the senator’s work on transforming the Federal College of Education in Asaba into a university, describing it as a crucial step towards addressing Asaba’s lack of a federal university.

“We are proud of your achievements and your dedication to the Anioma project. Your efforts align with the wishes of my predecessor, who envisioned a federal university in Asaba as a symbolic reparation for the massacre of Asaba people during the Nigerian Civil War,” the monarch said. “We support you wholeheartedly and are confident in your ability to deliver.”

Arising from his hospitable spirit, his residence in Idumuje-Ugboko has become a hub for solidarity visits. Only recently, he hosted prominent dignitaries, including Dr. Isitor Julius, King of Ottah-Igbanke, and Evans Anthony, King of Obazagbon Community. Both monarchs pledged their communities’ support for Anioma State, highlighting its significance as a unifying aspiration.

Dr. Julius remarked, “Anioma State is a movement backed by divine support. We stand solidly behind you in this noble pursuit. Our forefathers may have lacked knowledge, but we now understand the importance of freedom and unity.”

Similarly, King Anthony assured the senator of unwavering backing from traditional rulers in his community. The Ugo Anioma group, a socio-cultural movement advocating for Anioma State, also visited the senator. They reaffirmed their commitment and discussed the legislative progress of the state creation initiative.

Since assuming office in June 2023, Senator Nwoko has demonstrated a unique approach to representation, blending strategic action with a deep understanding of his constituents’ needs. His efforts have resonated with many Anioma people, who describe his leadership as purposeful and transformative.

In the Senate, Senator Nwoko has been vocal, championing causes that benefit both his constituency and the nation. Notably, he was among the senators who donated their December salaries totalling ₦109 million to victims of the accidental bombing in Kaduna State. His intervention also secured the release of the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom’s monarch, HRM Clement Ikolo, from military detention.

Closer to home, Senator Nwoko played a pivotal role in resolving the boundary dispute between Ugboba and neighbouring communities over coal mining activities. He facilitated peace without bloodshed, further solidifying his reputation as a unifying figure.

Reflecting on his inclusive philosophy, Senator Nwoko remarked, “I don’t believe in religion or colour. Whether you’re Muslim or Christian, I’m committed to helping all classes of people.”

As Senator Nwoko continues to garner widespread support, his work exemplifies the power of strategic leadership and a genuine commitment to community development. With his vision and dedication, the realisation of Anioma State and other transformative projects appears ever closer.

What manner of progressive achiever is this man? What is he looking for? While undertones are routinely imputed to whatever a politician does in our clime, Senator Nwoko’s political, social and humanitarian disposition transcends political hemisphere. What can be gleaned from the humanistic gesture is the keenness of an individual to do good with the objective to improve the socio-economic welfare of citizens in the present-day Nigeria.

His benevolence as senator reflects a deep passion driven by altruism. What differentiates him is the way he exemplifies the application of philosophy towards socio-economic relief and that of improvement in driving the mission of sustainable development. His political mission in public service is a measure of compassion, and his quest to ameliorate human suffering and commitment to helping the society to maximize its potential make the difference.

Abel Johngold is the Publisher and Editor of Spade News Nigeria