Called to Serve: HRM (Hon) Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri Reflects on His Humanitarian Journey

 By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

HRM Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri

Join us in celebrating the extraordinary life of HRM (Hon) Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri as he marks his Sapphire Birthday Anniversary. A visionary leader, humanitarian, and advocate for justice, he has dedicated his life to uplifting vulnerable communities and empowering women and youth across Nigeria. His passion for positive change, reflected through his numerous accomplishments, shines brightly today as he reflects on his incredible journey.

Happy Birthday, HRM Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri! How are you feeling as you celebrate this special day?

I am so delighted and grateful to Almighty God for His infinite mercies, grace, and love upon my life. Above all, I feel immensely happy to be alive to witness this day as I celebrate my Sapphire Birthday Anniversary in my Emerald season.

As you reflect on the past year, what are some of the key achievements you are most proud of?

Well, as a Humanitarian Servant Leader, Entrepreneur, Consultant, and Human Rights Activist/Defender and Advocate, I have positively impacted the lives of thousands, including persons with disabilities, widows, and other vulnerable groups. Additionally, I have established and registered around ten functional businesses, including:

i. Royal Ambassadors Charity Home (RACH)
ii. Royal Ambassadors Unique Services Ltd (RAUSL)
iii. Royal Ambassadors Entertainment & Modeling Agency (RAEME)
iv. Royal Ambassadors Security Services Ltd (RASSL)
v. Royal Friends Rights Advocacy, Development and Empowerment Foundation (RFRADEF)
vi. Royal Ambassadors Family Enlightenment Foundation (RAFEF)
vii. Royal Ambassadors Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society Ltd (RAMPCSL)
viii. Green Revolution Farmers Feed the Nation Foundation (GRFFNF)
ix. Green Revolution Food Bank Ltd (GRFBL)
x. Royal Ambassadors Global Media Ltd (RAGML)

What drives your passion for humanitarian work, and how has it evolved over the years?

I believe I was called to humanitarian work from birth, driven by a desire to help humanity by being a voice and defender for the voiceless and helpless. In fact, the Lord Almighty has been the force behind my achievements, and all glory and honor go to Him.

Can you share a memorable experience from your work with the Royal Ambassadors Charity Home that stands out to you?

Absolutely! My relationship with persons with hearing impairments, visual impairments, physical challenges, orphans, and widows has been incredibly rewarding. Their cries and challenges touch my heart deeply. I particularly cherish my moments with Amb. Rita Ofili and Amb. Ani Chiamaka Modester, who are both wheelchair users, and Barr. Constance Okosun, who is visually impaired, along with Barr. Ngerem-Destiny Miracle, who is physically challenged. Being around them makes me feel fulfilled, knowing that I am serving and assisting them on this earth.

In your opinion, what are the most urgent human rights challenges currently facing Nigeria?

This is a global issue, but in Nigeria, it is particularly the incessant harassment, intimidation, and victimization of citizens by security agencies, as well as unlawful arrests and the prolonged detention of innocent people. Widows are also often mistreated by their late husbands' relatives, which requires constant advocacy for their rights. A law should be established to defend them in this country.

What initiatives have you implemented to empower women and youth in your community?

I have been at the forefront of empowering women and youths in Nigeria. For my birthday, I turned my Birthday Bash into a Job Employment Bonanza, where 72 women and youths across the 36 states of Nigeria, including the FCT Abuja, were given the opportunity to be employed in the companies and NGOs I founded. In my local government area and community, I have empowered over 10 women and youths to secure meaningful employment.

With your extensive experience in media, what changes do you hope to see in the industry in the coming years?

My desire is to see the media take on the responsibility of delivering unbiased news reports and publications, setting a standard for other media houses to follow.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs celebrating their birthdays this month?

My advice to young entrepreneurs is to always look to God, who is the author and finisher of our faith. The power to create wealth comes from Him. When God leads you to undertake any venture, He will go before you, providing everything necessary to make it successful.

As a marriage counselor, what is the most important piece of advice you offer to couples?

My advice to singles is to marry the bone of your bone and the flesh of your flesh because, until you get married, you may not fully realize the favor God has in store for you. For couples already married, faithfulness, dedication, and commitment to your marriage are essential. Women, in particular, are the builders of the home and the best managers any man can have in life.

What steps are you taking to promote sustainable agriculture and food security in Nigeria?

As an agriculturist and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees/Director General of the Green Revolution Farmers Feed the Nation Foundation (GRFFNF), I am embarking on a tour across the 36 states of Nigeria, including the FCT Abuja. We aim to enlighten and sensitize women and youths on the importance of agricultural farming for sustainability and food security. During our upcoming program from 5th-8th December 2024, tagged "The Royal Gathering," we will launch an Agricultural Farming Project called "Operation Feed the Nation."

On this birthday, how would you like your legacy to be remembered in your community and beyond?

My utmost desire is that everyone around me experiences joy and happiness. I also want to live a fulfilled life by continuously putting smiles on people's faces.

Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the upcoming year, both personally and professionally?

Wow, I love this question. My aspiration for the upcoming year is to leave a legacy as a statesman who genuinely cares for women and youths. I hope to see a better Nigeria where the children of today and tomorrow will not suffer the challenges we face. Most importantly, I want women and youths to identify their God-given gifts, talents, and potentials and maximize these opportunities for profitable businesses, thereby reducing crime and criminality to the barest minimum in Nigeria.

As HRM Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri celebrates his special day, his unwavering commitment to humanity, social justice, and community empowerment remains a shining example for all. His visionary approach continues to touch countless lives, and his aspirations for a better Nigeria offer hope for the future. We wish him many more years of fulfillment, joy, and success in his impactful journey!

 

Wishing HRM (Hon) Amb. King Jonathan David Okwudiri a wonderful Sapphire Birthday filled with joy and blessings. May this special day, 25th October 2024, mark the beginning of another year of impactful service and accomplishments. Happy Birthday!