Profiles of Ogbona men and women

A Journey of Faith and Leadership Pius Etokhana Abdulmalik: A Modern Torchbearer Born in 1994, Pius Etokhana Abdulmalik upholds a proud tradition of dedicated community service, focusing on Islamic scholarship and youth development. After earning an ND in Chemical Engineering, he discovered a deeper calling in faith, completing a second ND in Islamic Knowledge and Arabic Language. This commitment launched him into a leadership role within the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), where he now serves as President of the Ogbona Branch and Vice President of the Edo North Area Council. founder and director of daarul Hudah Islamic center ogbona -Avianwu. Personal Background Pius was born on February 18, 1994, at UBTH, Ogbona, and resides on Bode Road in Ivhiochie, Otuaye compound. Married with one child, he is the son of Engineer Stephen Otuaye and Mrs. Paulina Azoganokhia. Early Life and Identity Raised in Ogbona, Pius navigated his parents’ separation with resilience and faith. His names reflect a rich heritage: “Pius” and “Imughene” from his grandfathers, “Etokhana” from a great-grandmother, and “Abdulmalik” after embracing Islam at age 15. Childhood nicknames like “Big Man” and “Friday” (his day of birth) further connect him to his roots. Education and Faith Formation Pius began school at World of Life Primary and completed his Common Entrance at Imhakhena Primary in 2005. He attended Ogbona Community Secondary School and Ikabigbo Grammar School, completing his senior secondary education in 2011. After Auchi Polytechnic and his Walimat al-Qur’an in 2014, he pursued deeper Islamic studies at Alfalah Islamic and Arabic Institute (affiliated with Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin), graduating in 2017. Fluent in Arabic, he attended national Islamic programs, including the Muslim Intellectual Course in Minna, imam and scholar training, and a digital business workshop by Professor Isa Ali Pantami. Islamic Training and Experience Pius has actively sought specialized religious and intellectual training across Nigeria, including the Muslim Intellectual Course in Niger State and the training of Imams and Muslim scholars in South Ibie. Notably, he participated in a digital online business training organized by the formal Minister of Communication, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, which included a gift of a new laptop. His subsequent professional life in Benin City solidified his teaching career, working concurrently as an Arabic and Islamic teacher at both Fomwan Group of School and Daarul Abrah Islamic Academy for two years. Community Contribution and Leadership In 2017, Pius made the conscious decision to relocate from Benin back to Ogbona to dedicate his life to the community’s young Muslims. Career and Leadership His career began in Benin City, teaching Arabic and Islamic Studies at FOMWAN Group of Schools and Daarul Abrah Islamic Academy. Inspired, he returned to Ogbona, founding Daarul Hudah Islamic Center in 2019 to teach and support youth and adults in faith, with eight students completing Qur’an recitation. In addition to MSSN leadership, he works with Amana Legacy Foundation and hosts MSSN and FOMWAN events. Daarul Hudah Islamic Center: His most significant contribution is the establishment of the Daarul Hudah Islamic Center Ogbona – Avianwu on August 17, 2019. This center serves as a vital platform where he teaches, preaches, and prays, focusing on the word of Allah (Al-Quran and good conduct). He currently boasts eight students who have completed the recitation of the Holy Quran. MSSN Leadership: Pius is the current President of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Ogbona Branch and the Vice President of MSSN Edo North Area Council. He leverages this platform for community welfare, including caring for the sick, the elderly, orphans (one of whom currently stays with him), and the needy. Fundraising and Development: Demonstrating initiative, he successfully collaborated with friends and the MSSN to secure resources, including plastic chairs, and to raise funds, notably ₦2 million from Mr. Peter Omo Dunia, Esq., which was used to buy foreign instruments for the Muslim community. He also uses a motorcycle gifted to him by the S.S.G. Edo state, Mall. Bar. Umar Musah Ikhilor, to assist elders and community members without charge. Aspirations and Legacy As a teacher, preacher, and facilitator (currently working with Amana Legacy Foundation), Pius is proud of his heritage and grateful for the example set by Ogbona leaders. He aspires to be remembered as the Ustaz (teacher) who dedicated his life to teaching the Qur’an and good conduct to the next generation. Looking ahead, his biggest plan is to tackle the issue of marital breakdown in Ogbona, believing that “a broken home makes a broken community.” He is committed to combining prayer, preaching, and developing tangible programs to reduce divorce and separation among the youth. Pius Etokhana Abdulmalik’s advice to the youth is a testament to his values: “put trust in God, respect their parents and work hard,” emphasizing that “The fight is against poverty, not against each other.”

REV. FR. (DR.) VALENTINE OBEMEATA ANAWEOKHAI. Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Valentine Obemeata Anaweokhai, Ph.D. (EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT), is a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, ordained on 24th September 2005. Formed at St. John of the Cross Spiritual Year and All‑Saints Major Seminary. EARLY LIFE, FAMILY, AND EDUCATION Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Valentine Obemeata Anaweokhai was born on 16th February 1979 to the family of the late Chief and Mrs. Vital Anaweokhai from Ogbona in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Each of his names holds a special meaning: Valentine (An agent of God’s love) Obemeata (they speak only of my weakness), Anaweokhai (oasis of succour and wisdom ) As the fourth *and last Son and last born* of nine children, he grew up with three brothers and five sisters in a devoted Catholic household in Edo State. His upbringing was shaped by his father’s strong discipline and his mother’s guidance as a school teacher, both of which instilled in him values of integrity, uprightness, and service. *Prior to his Birth Bishop Kelly of the then Benin Diocese told his Father that he will give birth to a Son who will be a Priest (as at this time hos dad already had 3 Sons, which his dad told the Bishop but he insisted our dad will give birth to another Son) hence the large family.* On the day of his birth, a Filipino medical doctor who delivered him *also* reportedly prophesied that the newborn would become a priest of the Most High God. Confirming the earlier prophecy of Bishop Kelly many years before his birth This prophecy and the profound meanings of his names have followed him throughout his life, guiding his mission and calling by God.Rev Fr. Valentine’s earliest encounter with the liturgy and priestly ministry came as an altar server at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona. The demands and rhythms of parish life, combined with the inspiring example of priests such as the late Very Rev. Fr. Leo Irabor nurtured a deep, vocational longing. By his adolescence, he had determined to pursue the priesthood. CAREER AND ACHIEVEMENT In 1997, through the Archdiocese of Benin City under the late Archbishop Patrick E. Ekpu, Valentine began formal formation at the St. John of the Cross Spiritual Year, Ekpoma, and subsequently entered All-Saints Catholic Major Seminary, Uhele-Ekpoma. Seminary life. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at the University of Benin in 2002. He earned a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University, Rome, in 2005. On 24th September, 2005, he was ordained to the priesthood by Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Auchi, and began his priestly ministry in the Diocese of Auchi. He has served as assistant parish priest, school principal, cathedral administrator, and chaplain to the Knights of St. John, and is currently the parish priest of SS. Joachim & Anne, Ososo. He is also certified in trauma-informed pastoral counselling and compassion fatigue therapy, with specialist training from Divine Mercy University and ICSEAR. EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS Post-Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma 2009. Master of Educational Management (M.Ed.), Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma — 2013. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Management, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma — 2024. Member, The Green Cross Academy of Traumatology (GCAT), USA — 2022 Member, Pan‑African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network, USA — 2022 Fellow, Institute of Professional Managers & Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA) — 2022 Doctoral Fellow, Institute of Professional Managers & Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA) — 2025 Certified Compassion Fatigue Therapist, Educator and Practitioner; Stress Management Specialist; Traumatologist (special interest: child and adolescent trauma, complex trauma, disaster, stress and field traumatology), Center for Trauma & Resiliency Studies, Divine Mercy University, Virginia, USA. Certified — Counsellor, Mental Health in Pastoral Counselling (MPC), Initiative for Community Sex Education & Addiction Rehabilitation (ICSEAR) Global Academy Enugu — 2024 Certificate — Sexual Health & Addiction Rehabilitation Counsellor (SARC), ICSEAR Global Academy, Enugu — 2024 PASTORAL AND PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS Since his ordination, Fr. Valentine has held a variety of pastoral and educational appointments across the Diocese of Auchi: Assistant Parish Priest, St. Philip Catholic Church, Jattu-Uzairue (2005–2008) Assistant Parish Priest, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Afashio-Afowa-Uzairue (2008–2010) School Principal, St. Philip Secondary School, Jattu (2007–2010) Cathedral Administrator, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Auchi (2010–2019) Chaplain to the Knights of St. John International, Catholic Diocese of Auchi (2006–2019). Sabbatical: Archdiocese of Chicago, Illinois, USA (2020–2021) Parish Priest, SS. Joachim & Anne Catholic Church, Ososo (2021–present). INTEREST AND SKILLS Rev.Fr. Valentine’s pastoral focus centres on counselling and trauma-informed care, especially for children, adolescents, and communities affected by complex trauma and disaster. PROFESSIONAL BODIES He is trained in compassion fatigue therapy and stress management. He is a member of professional bodies that support trauma care and pastoral theology. His qualifications also position him to lead and advise on educational management within Church-run institutions. TRAITS AND HOBBIES Known for a reflective and disciplined character formed by a strong family ethic and priestly formation, Fr. Valentine is also a teacher and writer. He enjoys reading and writing and takes pleasure in sport, particularly lawn tennis and table tennis. He is committed to lifelong formation, pastoral counselling, and the holistic wellbeing of the communities he serves. LEGACY Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Valentine Obemeata Anaweokhai continues to serve faithfully in the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, integrating pastoral care, educational leadership, and trauma-informed counselling His life and ministry are marked by a resolve to bring consolation, wisdom, and practical support to those entrusted to his care—truly embodying the meaning of his family name as an oasis of succour and wisdom. He remains committed to educational leadership, pastoral care, and the holistic well-being of his community. Committed to lifelong learning and to serving the church and community. while enriching was rigorous; the discipline and values from his upbringing helped him adapt and flourish. Throughout these roles, he has combined pastoral ministry with educational administration, pastoral counselling, and clergy formation. FOR COUNSELLING Parish, academic or pastoral-counselling

HIGH CHIEF DR. OKOZI RICHARD OSHIOREAMHE, JP, AFP Chairman/CEO, Rokozi Group of Companies Born in Ogbona Community, Etsako Central LGA, Edo State, Dr. Richard Okozi rose from humble beginnings to become a leading entrepreneur, philanthropist and community leader. The son of Prince Victor Etafia Okozi and Princess Helen Aguetsomhe Okozi (née Ubuike), he grew up in a family of peasant farmers and petty traders. Despite limited resources, his parents prioritized his education, enrolling him at Imhakhena Primary School, Ogbona, and later at UKU Commercial Secondary School, Iyuku. He earned degrees in Public Administration (University of Abuja) and Political Science (Nasarawa State University). Career and business leadership A hardworking and driven professional, Dr. Okozi began his career in the private sector, earning staff-of-the-year and best-marketing-staff recognition at Terconor Industries Ltd and Eagle Aluminium (2002–2007). In 2007 he founded Rokozi Group of Companies, where he serves as Chairman and CEO. The Rokozi Group encompasses diverse subsidiaries including Rokozi Investment Ltd, Rokozi Construction Ltd, Rokozi Electrical & Solar Solutions Ltd, Rokozi Aluminium System Ltd, Rokozi Industries Ltd, Rokozi International Hotels Ltd, Rokozi Farms Ltd, Rokozi City Estates Ltd, Rich & Divine Ltd, Jehovah Projects Ltd, Jehovah Oil & Gas Ltd, Ano Global Projects Ltd, Emike Designs & Projects Ltd, Shepherd Profiles Ltd, Rok & Jay Ltd, and Zokhia Nigeria Ltd. The group’s core activities span construction, real estate, oil & gas, electrical/solar solutions, manufacturing and hospitality. Employer of Labour Through his enterprises, High Chief Dr. Okozi has provided employment opportunities to over 1,000 Nigerians across various sectors. Philanthropy and community development Through Rokozi Cares Foundation, Dr. Okozi supports education, women and youth empowerment programs, annual market- and community-focused empowerment initiatives, and medical outreaches. His foundation has provided scholarships to more than eighty students and has run annual relief distributions and thanksgiving activities since 2017. Within his home community of Ogbona, Dr. Okozi has financed and executed several notable projects, including: – Three portable water boreholes (2019) – A modern palace (Chief Okozi memorial palace, 2011) – A model auditorium/church (Victory Chapel, 2013) Through his political and civic engagement he has also attracted infrastructure projects to the larger area, such as: – Access roads (Ogbona–Imiava; Atsegwasi junction to Okpekpe junction) – A 1.5 km road from Iyioba to Obiko filling station – Installation of solar street lighting across Ogbona community – Construction of 2 blocks of 3 classrooms at Asama Primary School, Ogbona – Human capital development programs Honors and recognition Dr. Okozi’s public service and philanthropy have earned him numerous local, national and international awards and chieftaincy titles, including: – Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, Honoris Causa) in Business Administration, Commonwealth Open  University (British Virgin Islands), 30 June 2015 – Chieftaincy titles: Osaseamhe of Avhianwu Clan (2011); Olemalu of Ekperi Kingdom (2011); Agabadun of Benue State (2014); Ada-Idagha Ke Efik Eburutu (Calabar); High Chief Ogiekhiniane (Royal Palace Anegbette, 2018) and Okhugievho of Okugbe clan Fugar on 16th November 2024 – Ambassador of Peace, Universal Peace Federation (2012) – Awards across student, youth and civic organizations recognizing leadership, community development and business excellence (2011–2023) Civic and political engagement Dr. Okozi is an active member and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, serving on state executive committees and representing his Local Government. Character and legacy Known for a hands-on approach to business and community development, Dr. Okozi blends entrepreneurial ambition with a strong commitment to giving back. His record of infrastructure projects, scholarships and empowerment initiatives reflects a focus on sustainable community improvements and human capital development. High Chief Dr. Okozi Richard Oshioreamhe embodies the transformational power of resilience, education and purposeful leadership. Rising from modest roots in Ogbona, he has built a diversified business empire and a philanthropic platform that tangibly improve lives providing water, schools, scholarships, solar lighting and empowerment initiatives that strengthen local communities. His many awards and traditional titles reflect the respect he commands across religious, student, civic and traditional spheres. As entrepreneur, benefactor and political actor, Dr. Okozi remains a visible and sustained force for infrastructure development, human capital growth and social uplift in Edo State and beyond, leaving a legacy of service that will endure for generations.

PETER OMOH DUNIA A Legacy of Giving: Peter Omoh Dunia’s Contributions to Community Development and Humanitarian Efforts Peter Omoh Dunia’s life story reads as an inspiring testament to selfless leadership and transformative community impact. Born on September 19, 1972 in Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria, to Grace Dunia and the late John Agunu Dunia, Peter’s formative years set the stage for his lifelong commitment to service. After attending Ogui Primary School in Enugu, he continued his studies at Ogbona Secondary School (1985–1989), then progressed through Auchi College (1990/1991) and Auchi Polytechnic 91992-1997), equipping himself with the education that would later underpin his success. Peter Omoh Dunia stands out as a celebrated Nigerian philanthropist, businessman, and humanitarian known for his remarkable contributions to community development, education, youth empowerment, and humanitarian initiatives. As the Chairman of the Oceanwave Group of Companies, Dunia’s work spans multiple sectors and has earned him widespread recognition, particularly for his enduring impact in the Niger Delta region. Yet, Dunia’s philanthropy extends beyond the Niger Delta. He has never forgotten his roots in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, where he hails from. As the younger twin in his family, his twin brother being Paul Odior Dunia, Peter Dunia, affectionately called “Peter-Black,” has maintained a close connection with his hometown. Historically, Ogbona, like many rural communities, suffered neglect and underdevelopment. As one of the four villages of the Avhianwu clan, it lacked essential infrastructure, a challenge Dunia directly addressed. Through his generosity and leadership, he transformed Ogbona by single-handedly asphalting approximately 15 kilometers of roads and streets, complete with drainage systems. His initiatives replaced the landscape of red dust and mud with well-constructed roads, modernizing the town and improving residents’ quality of life.   Dunia’s vision stands in sharp contrast to the self-interest often seen among the affluent. Rather than seek personal luxury, he invested in meaningful projects that uplifted his community. His philanthropy exemplifies leadership, ingenuity, and a genuine commitment to giving back, serving as an inspirational model for others. Dunia’s legacy is proof that lasting fulfillment and societal progress are found in service and dedication to the greater good, rather than personal accumulation of wealth. Philanthropic Efforts Known for supporting orphans, widows, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities, as well as providing healthcare, water, and essential amenities where they are lacking. Involved in empowering youth in the Niger Delta through sports initiatives, notably by sponsoring the Warri Wolves Football Club and other empowerment programs. Personally constructed 15 kilometers of asphalt roads with drainage in his hometown, Ogbona (Etsako Central LGA, Edo State), addressing long-standing infrastructure needs. Played a key role in the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme initiated in 2009 during President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration. Recognized for his extraordinary commitment to humanitarian work, especially for disadvantaged groups. Provides basic necessities such as water to underserved communities, demonstrating his dedication to improving living standards. Some of the Community Development Initiatives Peter Omoh Dunia has been instrumental in driving community development in Ogbona through various initiatives, including: – Road Infrastructure: Single-handedly built and improved roads, complete with proper drainage systems, transforming the community’s infrastructure and enhancing residents’ quality of life. – Law Enforcement: Constructed and equipped a modern Police Station, bolstering local law enforcement and safety. – Education and Youth Development: Supported the development of a school auditorium and outdoor sports center at Ogbona Secondary School, promoting education and youth development. – Places of Worship: Contributed to the construction of churches and a mosque, fostering spiritual growth and community cohesion. – Skill Acquisition: Supporting the establishment of a skill acquisition center, empowering community members with valuable skills. – Road Maintenance: Continues to grade roads in Ogbona, including new development areas, ensuring accessibility and connectivity. – Community Safety: Provides support for the Ogbona vigilante group, enhancing community safety and security.   Awards Named Humanitarian Personality of the Year by Independent Newspapers in 2025 and commended by community and business leaders for his outstanding contributions. Personal Philosophy and Recognition Known for taking initiative in challenging situations, often funding transformative community projects from his own resources. Believes in using personal means for communal benefit rather than for self-indulgence, inspiring others through his actions. Peter Omoh Dunia’s legacy is grounded in service, social responsibility, and the conviction that true leadership is reflected in the progress of one’s community rather than personal success.