was born on October 15, 1978, in Ibadan, Oyo State, to Chief John Oshiomogho Odia-Ogedegbe and Madam Philomena Abakhaghimheye. He hails from Ivhiochie Quarters, Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State.
Robert Ikhuenekhemhe Odia is a dedicated academic and administrator with a passion for business administration, management, public diplomacy and good governance.
After completing his Secondary Education at Our Lady of Fatima College, Auchi, Robert’s higher educational journey began in 1998 when he enrolled in Auchi Polytechnic, where he earned a National Diploma in Business Administration with a Lower Credit. He then returned to Auchi Polytechnic in 2002 and earned a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration and Management with an Upper Credit in 2003, when he also served as SUG Welfare Secretary.
In 2018, Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, earning First Class Honours.
He holds a double Master’s Degree from Delta State University, Abraka, with an MBA in Business Administration in 2007 (merit), and an MSc in Business Management in 2016 (credit).
Currently, he is a PhD candidate in Business Administration at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, with a focus on General Management.
Robert’s professional career began in 2005 as a Warri Regional Manager at Mawa Maritime Nig. Ltd., where he honed his skills in management, marketing, and customer service. In 2010, he joined Auchi Polytechnic as a Security Liaison Officer, later becoming an Administrative Officer in 2013.
Robert’s administrative career progressed as he became an Assistant Registrar in 2017, a Senior Assistant Registrar in 2020, and a Principal Assistant Registrar in 2023. In January 2023, he was appointed a Lecturer II in the Department of Business Administration and Management.
Throughout his career, Robert has attended over 13 training programmes, conferences and seminars, including the GIZ & GOPA MSME Training Of Trainers, Facilitators and Coaches (TOTFC) training programme in 2023, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) procurement basic training and conversion examination into procurement cadre in 2015, International Top Executive Training in Accra, Ghana in 2012, with over 12 Local/International Journal Articles published to his credit.
Robert is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management (MCPDM) and the Institute of Public Speaking, Nigeria (MIPS).
Robert’s hobbies include studying, public speaking, teaching, and playing volleyball. He is an active member of various associations, including, the League of Commentators and Lector (Lay Readers) in the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF), Auchi Branch, and All Progressive Congress (APC), Ward 4, Ogbona.
Robert has also been involved in various community activities, serving as, Master of Ceremonies (MC) at different events, a member of the Harvest Committee at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Auchi on multiple occasions, and Ward 4 APC Agent during various elections, including the 2023 general elections, and Coordinator for Comrade Adams Oshiomhole senatorial campaign in Ogbona Ward 4 during the 2023 general elections.
Robert’s story is one of dedication, hard work, and a passion for learning and growth. He is committed to making a meaningful impact in his field and contributing to the development of future generations. He is also a politician with a great interest in political activities and good governance.
