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Loretta Ogboro-Okor

Edo State 2024: meet Loretta Ogboro-Okor, only female governorship aspirant

Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, a distinguished female figure, has thrown her hat into the ring for the Edo State governorship race, marking a significant addition to the pool of aspirants. As the sole female contender in the race, she is poised to compete against notable figures such as Olumide Akpata, Asue Ighodalo, and Philip Shuaibu, the incumbent deputy governor, in the quest for Government House, Benin City. Ogboro-Okor has chosen to pursue her gubernatorial aspirations under the banner of the Labour Party.

A seasoned Consultant in Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, with training received in the United Kingdom, Ogboro-Okor brings a wealth of expertise to the political arena. Beyond her medical credentials, she stands as a global goodwill ambassador and an expert in medical simulation. Currently holding the position of President of the University of Benin Alumni Association, UK, she seamlessly integrates her roles as a medical practitioner, author, motivational speaker, women and youth health advocate, educationist, social entrepreneur, and dedicated blogger.

Educationally, Ogboro-Okor boasts a Master’s degree in public health research from the University of Edinburgh, another in clinical education from Sheffield Hallam University, and is actively pursuing a Ph.D. in law and criminology at Sheffield Hallam University. Her contributions extend to the realm of academia, where she is a valued member of the editorial board for the Journal of Medical and Basic Scientific Research.

A member of the prestigious Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in the UK, she currently serves as a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist with the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role as the obstetrics skills and drills lead with the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital Foundation Trust.

Beyond her medical career, Ogboro-Okor is a respected author, penning the autobiography ‘My Father’s Daughter’ and ‘Heartwebs.’ Her dedication to societal impact is evident in her co-founding of the Ashanti Graham Health and Education Foundation. The foundation focuses on building the capacity of healthcare professionals and recognizing excellence by awarding prizes to outstanding graduating students in the medical field.

Ogboro-Okor’s commitment to societal well-being extends to her involvement in political activities. She previously led the healthcare policy group in the Obi-Datti presidential campaign and participated as a panelist in the Big Tent Coalition telethon, a televised event in Nigeria aimed at raising funds for the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Ogboro-Okor has received numerous awards, including the Accenture 10th Gender Mainstreaming Award and the Positive Role Model West Africa Award in the management, consulting, and legal services sector. Married to Dr. Douglas Okor, a neurosurgeon, she stands as a multifaceted personality, poised to bring a unique blend of expertise and advocacy to the political landscape in Edo State.