Osita Okonkwo

Dr. Osita Okonkwo is a prominent public health expert and medical doctor, currently serving as the Country Director for Nutrition International in Nigeria. He has over 16 years of experience in project leadership, particularly in humanitarian emergencies, public health management, and disease prevention across several countries, including Nigeria, South Sudan, and Sierra Leone. Dr. Okonkwo holds a medical degree from Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK. Additionally, he has completed a postgraduate fellowship in Public Health Policy and Management at Tulane University in the USA.12

Throughout his career, Dr. Okonkwo has played significant roles in various health initiatives. Before joining Nutrition International, he served as a Health Advisor for the Nigerian Red Cross Society, where he spearheaded efforts against childhood malnutrition and led a UNICEF team focused on COVID-19 preparedness and response in Bauchi State, Nigeria. His expertise encompasses areas such as AIDS, maternal and child health, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and nutrition.13

Dr. Okonkwo is recognized for his contributions to public health and is a recipient of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship. He is also honored as an Ambassador for Peace by the United Nations International Peace Federation and is a Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK.14