The International Human Rights Observatory Africa (IHRO-Africa), a civil society organisation, on Friday, October 4, 2024, inducted Daniel Koussou as the Chairman, Committee on Economic Diplomacy, Trade and Investment in Nigeria.
Ambassador Daniel Koussou is a philanthropist and the Chief Executive Officer of Dau-O-Gik Oil and Gas.
The Country Director, BIGWIL IHRO-Africa, Dr Chimbo Obieze, during the induction ceremony in Lagos, said Koussou was picked after thorough integrity investigation.
Obieze urged Koussou to assume high level of patience, perseverance, courage and determination to excel, in order to emerge successful.
“On behalf of the Supreme Council of IHRO-Africa, under the leadership of His Excellency, Prof. J O Oguleri, Head of Africa Mission; Dr Mariia Atrott, Secretary-General; Prof. Abdu Shaffa, National Secretary and executive members of BIGWIL IHRO-Africa.
“I am honoured to induct Ambassador Daniel Koussou as Chairman of the Committee on Economic Diplomacy, Trade, and Investment.
“Ambassador Koussou’s appointment is a testament to his dedication to fostering economic growth and development in Africa.
“His experience and expertise in diplomacy and trade will contribute significantly to the committee’s success.
“As Chairman, you will lead and coordinate efforts to promote economic diplomacy, facilitate trade, and attract investment in our region.
“Your leadership will advance our mission to promote sustainable development and prosperity for all.
“We have full confidence in your ability to fulfill this role with excellence,”he stated.
Obieze noted that BIGWIL IHRO-Africa had made significant strides in advancing human rights and empowering marginalised communities across Africa.
He said that the NGO’s commitment to promoting peace, justice, and equality aligned with the ideals and values of the International Human Rights Organisation and the United Nations.
“As we celebrate this moment, we recognise the challenges ahead. Defending human rights and promoting social justice requires dedication, patience, and courage,” he said.
Also speaking, Amaka Ezedioranma, an official said IHRO-AFRICA was an international Civil Society Organisation registered, with International headquarters in Kenya, East Africa.
She said organisation aimed to collaborate with African governments to support the African Charter, which was unanimously adopted at the Organisation of the African Union (OAU) meeting of African Heads of state and government held in Kenya, June 27, 1981.
She explained that IHRO Africa seeks to engage with African governments and civil society organizations for project implementation and good governance.
“We focus on regional and national economic development goals for a better Africa that we propose to see, which will benefit the most vulnerable through our technical support in human rights campaign such as health, education, support, arts, culture and science,” she said.
Responding, Koussou said: “I am so humbled, so honoured to be able to receive this privilege of not only serving humanity, but equally protecting those that are weak, that are not able to speak, that are in any form of bondage or challenge.
“I excitedly accept this and thank you.
“What we want to achieve is to improve the image of Nigeria, work has begun already. We want to show the global communities that there are overwhelming opportunities in Nigeria.
“We want to show international investors, international Chief Executive Officers that Nigeria is extremely safe, that we have people of integrity and fear of God. We want to make sure that this office is able to empower Nigerians.
“So, this particular chapter, we will ensure adding value becomes our core message, especially in this office, we will be known for delivering significant value.”
