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Meet the Team

The Daddy G.O Innovation Competition Is Powered By A Passionate Group Of Organizers, Mentors, And Partners Dedicated To Empowering The Next Generation Of Innovators.

Board of Trustees

Our panel of experts in STEM, entrepreneurship, and innovation provide credibility and guidance.

Engr. George Okoyo

Engr. George Okoyo

Chairman BOT

Engr. George Okoyo is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers. He studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Benin. Before joining Point Engineering as its pioneer Managing Director, he headed the Piping / Pipeline department of ABB Lummus Global. He has had over Thirty (30) years post-graduation work experience in business management, staff development, oil & gas facilities design engineering, field development planning, project execution planning, economics and asset management, maintenance management, HSE and project management. In November 1987, Engr. George Okoyo, created ACADA LIFE, an innovative educational game that won third place in the Innovation of the Year Award by Ikeja Jaycees at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos. This early recognition marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to nurturing creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.

Mrs. Odinaka Okoyo

Mrs. Odinaka Okoyo

Trustee

Mrs. Odinaka Okoyo is a Nigerian professional with a degree in English from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She currently serves as the Director of Administration and Personnel at Point Engineering Limited, where she provides strategic leadership and oversight for all administrative and human resource functions. With over twenty (20) years of extensive experience, Mrs. Okoyo has developed a strong background in personnel management, organizational development, and administrative coordination. Her career reflects a consistent record of excellence in fostering efficient workplace structures, supporting staff development, and promoting effective organizational governance.

Anthony Agbojo

Anthony Agbojo

Trustee

With over 30 years of post-graduation experience, ANTHONY AGBOJO brings a strong multidisciplinary background spanning business management, staff development, petroleum and reservoir engineering, hydrocarbon development planning, and joint venture coordination. His expertise covers the full spectrum of upstream oil and gas operations, including production planning, economics, and asset management, complemented by sound knowledge of maintenance, HSE, and project management. He also possesses working experience in surface and process engineering and has demonstrated competence in onshore, offshore, and deepwater development planning, concept engineering, portfolio management, and stakeholder engagement.He is a results-oriented and broad-based engineer with well-developed commercial acumen and proven team leadership abilities. Known for his clarity of thought, adaptability, and effectiveness under pressure, he combines technical excellence with strong interpersonal and mediation skills that foster collaboration and drive performance. Fluent in French, he holds a B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering from UNIBEN, an M.Sc. in Reservoir Engineering, and an MBA in Finance.

Dele Aikhionbare

Dele Aikhionbare

Trustee

DELE AIKHIONBARE is an Electrical and Electronics Engineering graduate of the University of Benin and a Shell Scholar. His career spans over 30 years and 4 continents, having worked in Germany, Australia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria.

Positions held include: • Managing Director West Africa Schlumberger WesternGeco. • Multi-Client Asset Development Manager for Africa (Schlumberger Multi-Client) • Global Training Manager Schlumberger WesternGeco Land Operations, • Director National Content Schlumberger Oilfield Services. • Head Project Management Office Eroton Exploration & Production Company. • Executive Management Advisor Eroton Exploration & Production Company Limited • Pioneer member of the National Content Research & Development Council • Alumnus of the London Business School

Mrs. Gloria Ikpea

Mrs. Gloria Ikpea

Trustee

MRS. GLORIA OTEKPEN IKPEA is a seasoned executive with over two decades of leadership experience across banking, procurement, supply chain management, real estate development, and corporate operations. As Executive Director and General Manager, Operations at GCT Property Development Company, she has driven significant operational improvements, strengthening governance, boosting tenant compliance to over 90%, reducing defaults by 30%, and expanding the client portfolio by 20%. Her earlier career at Standard Chartered Bank saw her excel as Country Head of Supply Chain Management for Nigeria and the West Africa Cluster, where she managed a $250 million spend portfolio, achieved annual savings exceeding $5 million, improved procurement efficiency by 25%, and cut supplier risks by 30%. She also served as Sustainability Lead for Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, integrating ESG principles into global sourcing and governance frameworks. With deep expertise in strategic sourcing, risk management, cost optimization, and stakeholder engagement, Gloria is recognized for her ethical leadership, inclusive team development, and ability to deliver measurable impact across complex, multi-regional organizations. Her academic achievements, WES-certified to North American standards, include a Master’s in Industrial & Labour Relations and a Bachelor’s in History, supplemented by executive education in Entrepreneurship Essentials at Harvard Business School Online and a certificate in Counselling Skills from the Minster Centre, UK. A member of CIPS (UK), CIBN, and NIM, Gloria is fluent in six languages and brings to the boardroom a rare combination of strategic cost leadership, governance excellence, and human-centered leadership.

Abdallah Joseph Mohammed

Abdallah Joseph Mohammed

Trustee

ABDALLAH JOSEPH MOHAMMED BAIKIE, an indigene of Kano State, was born on June 18, 1962, to David Adamu Baikie and the late Elizabeth Ya’arbaba Baikie (née Usman). He began his education at ABU Zaria Nursery School and continued to ABU Staff School for his primary education. In 1974, he gained admission to the prestigious Nigerian Military School, Zaria, where he graduated in 1980. He later attended the University of Benin, earning a degree in Engineering. Sponsored by the Nigerian Army, he was commissioned into the Officer Corps of the Nigerian Army Engineers upon graduation. Over the course of his distinguished military career, he earned several professional registrations with recognized engineering regulatory and professional bodies before voluntarily retiring from service in 2001 with the rank of Major. A disciplined professional and devout Christian, Major (Rtd) Abdallah Baikie is also a licensed Evangelist with the Anglican Communion. He is married to Mrs. Oluwayemisi Adebimpe Baikie (née Koleoso), whom he wed on December 12, 1992, at the Ajegunle Baptist Church in Saki. Their union is blessed with three children. His life reflects a blend of service, faith, and leadership—rooted in integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to both his professional calling and spiritual mission.

Award Management Committee

Our panel of experts in STEM, entrepreneurship, and innovation provide credibility and guidance.

Dr. Israel Mkpaoro

Dr. Israel Mkpaoro

Executive Director

Dr. Israel Mkpaoro earned his BS in Petroleum Engineering from Nigeria’s premier institution, the University of Ibadan, and holds both an MS and a PhD in Environmental Technology and Management from the University of Port Harcourt.

With over 30 years of experience across the oil and gas industry and the public sector, Dr. Mkpaoro has worked extensively in engineering, environmental management, business management, and human resource management. He has also dedicated more than 20 years to academia, lecturing at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, serving briefly as Provost of a tertiary institution.

Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Mkpaoro devotes much of his time to philanthropic initiatives focused on youth development. His activities include job creation, empowerment programs, entrepreneurship training, social justice advocacy, volunteer service, and speaking engagements at youth-focused events.

He is a member of several respected professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP–USA), Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Chartered Institute of Cost Management of Nigeria, British Project Professionals Society (UK), and the Association for Educational Communication & Technology (AECT–USA).

Widely traveled, Dr. Mkpaoro has participated in and presented at numerous international conferences and has published scholarly papers in reputable academic journals.

Ikechukwu Obioha

Ikechukwu Obioha

Mentorship and Training Co-ordinator

A results-driven Project Engineer and Trainer with over 10 years of experience in youth advocacy, leadership development, and capacity-building. Holds an M. ENG in Mechanical Engineering and has successfully managed engineering projects while equipping young people with the skills and mindset needed to thrive.

Founder of multiple youth-focused coaching and mentorship initiatives, including academic coaching programs and discipleship engagement platforms that nurture personal growth, character development, and excellence.

Passionate about empowering the next generation, creating opportunities for learning, and helping young people discover their potential and purpose.

Blessed Ariagbofo

Blessed Ariagbofo

Program Manager

Blessed Osezuwa Ariagbofo is an Electrical and Electronics Engineering graduate and IoT professional focused on designing and deploying intelligent, connected systems. His work centers on embedded systems, sensor integration, and data-driven decision-making, with applications spanning smart infrastructure, environmental monitoring, agriculture, and automation.

He has built multiple end-to-end IoT and AI-driven solutions, including real-time monitoring systems, smart automation platforms, and connected devices that seamlessly integrate hardware, cloud services, and user-facing applications. His engineering approach prioritizes reliability, scalability, and practical deployment, combining microcontroller-based hardware with robust cloud data pipelines and applied machine learning.

Blessed has hands-on experience with Arduino, ESP-based platforms, Raspberry Pi, and a wide range of sensors, alongside cloud technologies such as AWS, Azure, and Firebase. He regularly uses tools like Python and MATLAB for data analysis, system modeling, and machine learning tasks related to IoT data. Much of his work involves taking ideas from concept and prototyping through testing and real-world deployment.

Beyond technical development, he has led engineering teams and STEM initiatives, coordinating multidisciplinary efforts to deliver functional products and innovation-driven solutions. He led a team of three to secure third place in the maiden edition of the Daddy G.O. Innovation Award, and his work has been recognized through awards at national engineering and innovation competitions.

Blessed is passionate about using IoT and embedded systems to solve real-world problems and is particularly interested in developing smart, scalable technologies that improve efficiency, monitoring, and decision-making in both emerging and global markets.

Judges

Compile and shortlist candidates for the competitions

Kofi Bartels

Kofi Bartels

Volunteer Inhouse Judge

Kofi is a highly accomplished and versatile broadcast journalist, communications professional and marketing practitioner with a passion for delivering engaging news and thought-provoking discussions and building communication and marketing strategies. With close to two decades of experience, he has had the privilege of anchoring, presenting and producing various top-rated programs, both in radio and television.

His extensive media experience includes presentation, producing, scripting, conducting research, and having a wide network of experts and key stakeholders for booking as guests for programs, ensuring informative and compelling content. Notably, his past roles as the Head On-Air Personality on Nigeria Info FM, Port Harcourt, saw him host flagship programs such as 'Hard Facts' and 'The Morning Crossfire,' earning top ratings and establishing a strong connection with listeners.

He is currently excelling as a Broadcast Journalist and Assistant Programs Director at Lagos Talks 91.3 FM, where he presents 'The Late Edition' and, in his management role, collaborates to ensure smooth station operations.

As the Host of 'Politics HQ' on News Central Television, he brings current affairs and political discussions to life, while engaging with viewers on diverse magazine topics.

His passion for journalism extends beyond the studio, as he has led and mentored talented teams, ensuring seamless program production and the delivery of high-quality content. As Head of Content & Talent at Atlantic Television Network, he crafted content strategies that captivated audiences and propelled the network's success.

Beyond broadcasting, he has made significant contributions to corporate communications as communications consultant to individuals and organizations, and as the Corporate Affairs Manager at a major business Group in Nigeria, managing the communication strategies of subsidiaries.

Kofi takes pride in his ability to captivate audiences, share insights on African and international affairs, and foster meaningful discussions. His dedication as a compere for many prestigious events further showcases his dynamic presentation skills.

Passionate about using media as a tool for positive change and development, he is driven to contribute his expertise to reputable organizations that share his vision.

Mrs. Amaka Onyemelukwe

Mrs. Amaka Onyemelukwe

Volunteer Inhouse Judge

Nwamaka Onyemelukwe is a renowned strategic leader with more than 20 years’ experience driving transformative results in public affairs, corporate communications, and sustainability across Africa’s evolving business landscape. As Senior Director at The Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, Nwamaka’s leadership is instrumental in shaping progressive public policies, advancing ambitious ESG goals, and safeguarding the reputation of one of the world’s most iconic brands.

Widely recognized for her visionary approach, Nwamaka has spearheaded high-impact advocacy initiatives successfully leading industry coalitions that influenced pivotal policy outcomes, such as securing a predictable excise tax framework that delivers over $100 million in annual savings to the non-alcoholic beverage sector. She is also the force behind Nigeria’s first industry-led food and beverage recycling alliance, setting new benchmarks for corporate sustainability and community partnership.

Nwamaka’s career is defined by her commitment to meaningful stakeholder engagement, inclusive business growth, and innovative solutions to complex regulatory challenges. Her efforts have earned her esteemed distinctions, including FMCG’s Most Outstanding Sustainability Professional of the Year and industry recognition for excellence in social impact. A passionate advocate for responsible leadership and sustainable development, Nwamaka leverages her expertise to inspire teams, shape collaborative strategies, and deliver enduring value for businesses and society alike.

Through her dynamic leadership, Nwamaka continues to shape the future of responsible business in Africa and beyond.

Ikechukwu Bismarck Owunna

Ikechukwu Bismarck Owunna

Judge

Ikechukwu Bismarck Owunna is a Nigerian mechanical engineer and Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Benin, Edo State. His expertise lies in Engineering Design and Manufacture, with extensive academic and professional contributions in mechanical and industrial engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering (2020) from the University of Benin, an M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering (2015) from Coventry University, United Kingdom, and an M.Eng. in Industrial Engineering (2014) from the University of Benin. As an academic, Dr. Owunna has built a strong scholarly portfolio supported by publications indexed on Google Scholar. His work spans teaching, research, and engineering practice, reflecting over a decade of progressive engagement in engineering education and innovation.

Professor Ify L. Nwaogazie

Professor Ify L. Nwaogazie

Judge

Nwaogazie Ify L. is a retired academic staff of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Port Harcourt. He spent 28years as a Professor and 41years altogether of meritorious service.

Academic Qualifications: Prof. Nwaogazie earned his BS Civil, 1979 & MS Water Resourc. 1980; and PhD. in Civil & Envtl. Engrg. Oklahoma State, 1982. Apparently, he completed his degree programs in six years.

Professional Qualifications: Prof. Nwaogazie is a registered professional Engineer by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) (1985), a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (1999), Fellow, Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (2014), Environmental Professional (EP-NREP) USA (2018).

Area of Interest: He is a specialist in Mathematical Modeling of Engineering Systems - mainly, Finite Element Modeling and Computer Applications. He is a consultant in Baseline Studies & Environmental Impact Assessment for many organizations.

Project Supervisions: Prof. Nwaogazie has successfully supervised over 50 undergraduate projects; over 100 MS Dissertations and over 50 PhD Thesis. He has equally externally examined over 20 PhD candidates in the Universities within Southern Nigeria and assessed about 25 academic lecturers for positions of associate and full professorial positions in different universities in Nigeria.

He was actively involved in Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation in University of Maiduguri as a team member in 2005 and OAU, Ife; Federal University Ekiti and Niger Delta University, Bayelsa as a Team Lead in 2019.

Distinguished Lectures: Prof. Nwaogazie delivered his inaugural lecture on Water Supply for All: Who Cares? (2006) and Valedictory lecture on Research & Development (R&D) in an Academic Environment: The Joy & Challenges.

Professor Mike Obi Onyekonwu

Professor Mike Obi Onyekonwu

Judge

Professor Mike Obi Onyekonwu was the former Director of the Institute of Petroleum Studies University of Port-Harcourt (2010-2015) and also a former member of Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Governing Council (2010-2016). He equally served as the PTDF Gas Chair Professor of Petroleum and Gas Engineering (2004-2009). Presently, he is an active professor of oil and gas in the Department of Petroleum Engineering Uniport and Chairman of the Board of Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria. Professor Mike Obi Onyekonwu is not only active in academia, but also active in the oil and gas industry. He is the founder and first Managing Consultant of Laser Engineering and Resources Consultants Limited – an indigenous consultancy outfit specializing in Reservoir Management Studies, PVT Sampling and Analysis and Slickline Services. Laser Engineering also runs a Geosciences School accredited by National Board of Technical Education. Onyekonwu obtained a BSc. (First Class) degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1978 from University of Ibadan Nigeria. Subsequently, he obtained an MS and PhD degrees in Petroleum Engineering from Stanford University California in 1981 and 1985 respectively. Professor Onyekonwu is a registered engineer and member of several professional organizations. He is a Fellow of Academy of Science, a Fellow of the Institute of Petroleum Studies and a Fellow of Oil and Gas Trainers’ Association of Nigeria and a Distinguished Member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers Inc. He has published five books/monographs, more than 100 articles in reputable journals and owns two patents. His interest is in oil and gas research and mentoring young professionals. Professor Onyekonwu is a philanthropist and active in Community Volunteer work. He was the Chairman of the Education Committee in his Community, Lilu in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State. He is equally a National Director of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International and in-charge of capacity building in the South-South Region.