Umana Okon UmanaCON,[1] born 20 August 1959, is a Nigerian politician, economist, and business leader known for his extensive involvement in the political and economic development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
His career spans over three decades, marked by significant roles in public service and business. Most notably, he served as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.[2][3]
Early life and education
Umana was born on 20 August 1959, in Calabar, Cross River State,[4] and completed his early education at St. Patrick's College.[5]
Umana has participated in numerous professional development courses at Ivy League schools that include "Public Private Partnerships and Project Finance" at the International Law Institute in Washington, D.C. (November 2017); "Senior Executive Programme" at the London Business School (February 2009); "Columbia Senior Executive Program" at Columbia Business School (May 2002); Modernising Government—RIPA International, London (November 2001).
In 2019 Umana received the Executive Certificate in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, having completed the following programs: "Leading Economic Growth" (May 2019); "Driving Government Performance" (March 2018); and "Mastering Negotiation" (April 2019).[6][7][non-primary source needed]
Political career
Minister of Niger Delta Affairs: He was appointed to this position by President Mohammadu Buhari from July 2022 to April 2023, concluding his tenure when President Buhari's term ended in 2023.[8]
He focused on addressing socio-economic challenges in the Niger Delta, emphasizing infrastructure rehabilitation and community empowerment.
He was honored as "Minister of the Year" at an event organized by various newspaper agencies.[9]
Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA): Umana served as the Managing Director/CEO of OGFZA, promoting ease of doing business and economic activities in Nigeria.[10]
Following a successful drive against red tape that brought in a steady flow of new investments into Nigeria's oil and gas-free zones, OGFZA won first place in the Presidential Ease of Doing Business Initiative, ahead of 43 other ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government in 2018, which is promoted by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council.[11]
Gubernatorial Candidate: Umana contested in the Akwa Ibom State gubernatorial election, demonstrating his political influence and ability to mobilize support..[3][12]
Secretary to government: Under Godswill Akpabio as governor, Umana was the Secretary to the Government of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2013.[13]
Commissioner for Finance: From 2003 to 2007, Umana was the Commissioner for Finance in Akwa Ibom state under Governor Victor Attah and served for two terms of four years each.[14]
He was appointed as the deputy director of Logistics for the APC Presidential Campaign in 2019.[15]
Civil Service Career
Umana served as the first Permanent Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Budget Office from 2000 - 2003[16]
Contributions
Umana's career has been marked by his commitment to governance, transparency, and economic development. His tenure in various positions has been noted for:
Infrastructure Development: Significant contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State's infrastructure.[9]
Economic Strategy: Playing a pivotal role in the state's economic planning and budget execution.[17]
Recognition
Umana was conferred with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2023 by President Mohammadu Buhari.[1]
The fDi Magazine named OGFZA "Free Zone of the Year" in 2018 and "Bespoke Free Zone Incentives" in the year 2019.[17]
Various newspaper agencies named him Minister of the Year in 2022[9]
