Aso Cultural Fiesta Honours Hon. Dr. Chief Jim Chimezie Okolo with Special Recognition Award for Community Development

Abuja, Nigeria – It was a moment of celebration, culture, and national pride at this year’s Aso Cultural Fiesta, as Hon. Dr. Chief Jim Chimezie Okolo, a respected philanthropist and public-spirited leader, was presented with the Special Recognition Award for Community Development.

The award was bestowed in recognition of his unwavering commitment to grassroots development, humanitarian efforts, youth empowerment, and his far-reaching impact on community life in Nigeria.

A Life of Purpose and Impact

Hon. Dr. Chief Jim Chimezie Okolo, a native of Obosi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, is widely known for his work as a businessman, pro-democracy advocate, humanitarian, and community leader. He is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Jimez Petroleum Resources Ltd, a leading indigenous oil and gas firm.

Outside the corporate world, he is the founder of The Jim Mezie Foundation, a platform through which he has transformed lives across Nigeria by providing scholarships, free healthcare services, economic support for widows and indigent women, and job creation opportunities for young people.

His commitment to human capital development has been described as consistent and deeply personal, with testimonies from various communities affirming the positive change his intervention programs have brought.

Recognition and Traditional Honours

In acknowledgment of his vast contributions to humanity, Dr. Okolo has received several prestigious honours. These include an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarian Management from Freedom University and Theological Seminary, USA, as well as fellowships from reputable institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (Ghana) and the Institute of Oil & Gas Research and Hydrocarbon Studies.

Additionally, in recognition of his service to the people, he was conferred with the traditional title Ezeugo I of Okwe Kingdom, Nike Autonomous Community, by His Royal Highness, Igwe Prof. Onuora Joseph Onah, the Okwe of Okwe Kingdom, Enugu State.

Dr. Okolo’s service transcends national borders. As the National Coordinator of Nouvelle Perspective Internationale, he has represented Nigeria in global engagements, including serving as a United Nations–accredited international election observer, leading Nigerian delegations to major global democratic events, including the 2024 United States presidential election.

Award Presentation and Cultural Celebration

The Aso Cultural Fiesta, held annually in Abuja, celebrates Nigeria’s unity in diversity, promotes cultural heritage, and recognizes individuals whose lives reflect dedication to the betterment of society. During the presentation of the Special Recognition Award, the organizers praised Dr. Okolo’s development-focused leadership, philanthropic work, and active engagement in fostering community growth.

The event featured cultural performances, traditional music, and tributes to African heritage. The moment Dr. Okolo was called to receive his award was met with a standing ovation and traditional blessings from elders present at the ceremony.

A Call to Continue the Good Work

Speaking after receiving the award, Hon. Dr. Chief Jim Chimezie Okolo expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to community service. He noted that the recognition only strengthens his resolve to do more for humanity, adding that Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who prioritize people above power and influence.

“I dedicate this award to every youth who dares to dream, every widow in our rural communities who hopes for a better life, and every child who deserves an education. Together, we can build a Nigeria that works for everyone,” he said.

As the Aso Cultural Fiesta concluded, Dr. Okolo’s honour stood out as a shining example of what transformative leadership and true service to the people represent.