Okolo Takes West African Regional Role, Vows To Advance Human Rights

Dr Jim Chimezie Okolo has been confirmed as the West African regional director for Inter-Governmental Affairs of the International Human Rights Protection Service (IHRPS), USA, with a pledge to strengthen the promotion of human rights, justice, peace and good governance across the region.

Okolo, while reaffirming his commitment to “building bridges of peace and justice across borders,” said his new responsibility would provide an opportunity to deepen collaboration among West African countries and advance democratic and humanitarian values.

His elevation followed his earlier appointment and induction as the national director of Peace and Conflict Resolution of the organisation at the National Defence College, Abuja, in December last year.
The IHRPS, headquartered in Florida, United States, focuses on the protection of fundamental human rights and the advancement of justice globally.

Okolo has also served as national coordinator of Nouvelle Perspective International, where he participated in election observation missions in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Chad, Togo, Burundi, Germany, France, Italy and the United States.

His involvement in election observation has focused on promoting transparency, credibility and fairness in democratic processes.

He was also recently inducted as an Implementing Partner for Global Peace by the Nigerian Air Force Directorate of Peace Support Operations, a development that further underscores his involvement in peacebuilding and civil-military collaboration.

Beyond diplomacy and peacebuilding, Okolo has maintained interests in education, philanthropy and enterprise.

He is president of the Jim Mezie Foundation, which focuses on community empowerment and youth development, as well as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Jimez Petroleum Resources Ltd.

In the education sector, he serves as chairman of the Governing Council of Bridget University, Mbaise, where he promotes academic development and leadership training.

His grassroots activities have also earned him the traditional title of Chief of Eleme Kingdom in Rivers State, conferred by HRH John Adimkpa Nkpe.

Okolo’s humanitarian and diplomatic engagements have attracted several recognitions, including the Africa’s Humanitarian Hero Award (AFRILA 2025), International Election Diplomat accreditation from UN/Switzerland and recognition as a Global Peace Advocate.