As the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) prepares for another defining election cycle, delegates are once again presented with the sacred responsibility of choosing leaders who embody integrity, intellect, vision, and strong commitment to the Urhobo nation. Among the eminent individuals offering themselves for service, Olorogun Sir Dr. Felibens Edeheri Okoro, PhD, KSJI, stands out as a candidate whose distinguished life story and professional legacy reflect the true ethos of Urhobo leadership.
A development activist, seasoned Applied Geophysicist, and nation-builder with a track record spanning several decades, Dr. Okoro brings to the UPU a rare blend of academic excellence, technical mastery, administrative depth, and community-centered leadership.
A Trailblazer in Geosciences and National Development
Dr. Okoro began his professional career at the Federal Department of Water Resources, serving as a field geophysicist where he contributed significantly to water supply baseline studies and federal water schemes across Rivers State. His pioneering work in applying surface geophysical methods to groundwater solutions—especially the groundbreaking use of Electrical Resistivity Survey in isolating iron-contaminated zones in Emakalakala, Bayelsa State—solidified his status as an innovator in hydro-geophysics.
Before founding his own thriving private practice, he served as Chief Geophysicist of Fedison Nigeria Limited. Today, he leads several reputable companies, including Okoro & Company (W.A.) Ltd, delivering advanced geophysical, geotechnical, and engineering solutions across the Niger Delta and beyond.
His expertise in downhole geophysics and aquifer delineation places him among Nigeria’s most respected authorities in groundwater science.
Academic Excellence Rooted in Urhobo Pride
Born in Imode, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State, Dr. Okoro’s early brilliance earned him multiple scholarships, including a prestigious academic-cultural exchange to Government Secondary School, Katsina-Ala. His academic journey includes:
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B.Sc. in Applied Geophysics – University of Ife (now OAU)
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M.Sc. & PhD in Geophysics – Federal University of Technology, Owerri
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Advanced professional training in the United States, Sweden, and the United Kingdom
He has consistently demonstrated an unbroken commitment to expanding knowledge and applying scientific solutions to environmental and human-development challenges.
A Proven Administrator, Nation Builder & Global Representative
Dr. Okoro’s leadership footprints span local, national, and global stages. He is a life member and former National President of the Junior Chamber International Nigeria (JCIN). Through this platform, he represented Nigeria at high-level conferences in South Korea, USA, Ethiopia, UK, South Africa, Germany, and France.
Notably, he led the Nigerian delegation to the 1996 Global Affairs Leadership Summit under UNESCO’s 50th anniversary celebration and was specially invited among 75 global young leaders to the 75th National Convention of Junior Chamber Germany.
His contributions have earned him multiple fellowships, including:
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Fellow, Nigerian Association of Engineering Geology & the Environment
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Fellow, Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society
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Chartered Geoscientist (COMEG)
Deep Roots in UPU and the Urhobo Nation
Dr. Okoro’s long-standing service to the Urhobo Progress Union reflects not only loyalty but tested experience in Urhobo socio-cultural leadership. His roles include:
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Assistant National Secretary, UPU Worldwide (current)
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Immediate Past President, UPU Rivers State Chapter
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Past Chairman, Ughievwen Union (Rivers State)
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Past National Publicity Secretary, Urhobo Solidarity Club
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Past Vice President, Urhobo Solidarity Club, Port Harcourt
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Past Chairman, Imode Community Development Association (Rivers State)
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Immediate Past President, GCUOBA, Port Harcourt Branch
Across these roles, Dr. Okoro has demonstrated diplomacy, unity-building, administrative transparency, and grassroots engagement qualities essential for strengthening the UPU structure at home and in diaspora.
A Leader of Character, Compassion & Commitment
Beyond boardrooms and field projects, Dr. Okoro is known for his philanthropy, youth empowerment advocacy, and passion for community development. His work spans capacity-building trainings in leadership, negotiation, time management, parliamentary procedures, and personal development.
He is a Knight of St. John International (KSJI), a dedicated Catholic, and a family man blessed with children and grandchildren.
Why Delegates Believe in Dr. Okoro
The position of 3rd Deputy President-General of UPU requires a leader who is:
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Experienced in UPU structures
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Grounded in Urhobo values
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Technically and intellectually gifted
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Globally exposed, locally committed
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Transparent, inclusive, and service-driven
Dr. Okoro embodies these attributes in full measure. His candidacy is a call to elevate UPU with stable, visionary, development-oriented leadership that inspires confidence across all Urhobo kingdoms.
