ABUJA, Nigeria — In a country where governance and grassroots activism often exist in parallel, Chief Uchenna Okafor—better known locally as “Kosoko”—is bridging the gap.
The traditional leader, known as the Onwa of Umute Kingdom, also serves as Director General of the Delta State Taskforce and Monitoring Team for the Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA). On August 19, he will be honored as one of the “50 Heroes of Humanitarian Service” by Hope Ambassadors for Peace in Africa Initiative (HAPAI), a civil society organization promoting inclusive governance and humanitarian development across the continent.
A letter confirming his selection, dated July 28, 2025, cited a nationwide public poll and committee deliberations. The award committee praised Okafor for his “consistent advocacy for people-centered governance,” particularly on behalf of Nigeria’s working poor. The letter was signed by HAPAI Executive Director Amb. Frank A. Chinedu, Executive Secretary Engr. Ambrose Philemon, and Planning Committee Chairman Alh. Mohammed Bukar.
Okafor’s work has extended far beyond his administrative title. Since assuming leadership at COMTOA, he has transformed the regulatory body into a social support mechanism—coordinating vocational training, health outreach, and road safety education for thousands of motorcycle (okada) and tricycle (keke) operators across Delta State. These informal workers, often excluded from Nigeria’s urban development agenda, are vital to the nation’s public transport ecosystem.
“Our work is about dignity, not just discipline,” Okafor has said. “We’re guiding people.”
Under his leadership, the taskforce has reduced transport-related fatalities, improved licensing standards, and launched initiatives to empower unemployed youth with economic alternatives. His approach blends policy enforcement with community-based interventions—restoring hope, particularly in underserved areas.
HAPAI, the award’s organizing body, shares a similar vision. Founded on principles of accountability, compassion, and grassroots leadership, the organization created the “50 Heroes” platform to honor Africans leading sustainable change in their communities.
As Nigeria prepares to mark UN World Humanitarian Day later this month, Okafor’s recognition underscores a quiet but powerful truth: humanitarian leadership is not always found in boardrooms or global headlines. Sometimes, it rides alongside commuters, making sure no one is left behind—on the road or in society.
Chief Okafor will receive the award during a national ceremony on August 19 at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja.
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