Senator Ned Nwoko
Ned Munir Nwoko (born December 21, 1960) is a Nigerian politician, lawyer, philanthropist, and businessman. He is the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). A strong advocate for malaria eradication, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability, Nwoko is widely recognized for his contributions to Nigerian politics and global humanitarian efforts.
Early Life and Education
Nwoko was born into the royal family of Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State. He attended primary and secondary school in Nigeria before moving to the United Kingdom for higher education.
He obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Law and History from Keele University, Staffordshire, and later earned a Master of Laws (LLM) in Maritime and Commercial Law from King’s College, University of London. He was called to the English Bar at Lincoln’s Inn and subsequently qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, a title he still holds.
Honorary Doctorates
Nwoko has been recognized with several honorary doctorate degrees for his contributions to law, philanthropy, and public service:
1. Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) – Commonwealth University College, Belize
• Awarded in recognition of his outstanding achievements in law, humanitarian service, and national development.
2. Honorary Doctorate – Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Nigeria
• Conferred for his advocacy in environmental sustainability and malaria eradication in Africa.
3. Honorary Doctorate – Delta State University (DELSU), Nigeria
• Recognized for his contributions to education, youth empowerment, and legislative excellence.
Political Career
House of Representatives (1999–2003)
Prince Ned Nwoko began his political career as a member of the House of Representatives (1999–2003), representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His tenure was marked by efforts to improve education, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in his constituency.
Senate (2023–Present)
In 2023, he was elected Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly.
In January 2025, he defected from the PDP to the APC, citing dissatisfaction with the PDP’s leadership in Delta State and a desire to align with the APC’s progressive development agenda. His defection bolstered the APC’s dominance in Delta State, as all three senators from the state are now APC members.
Legislative Priorities and Sponsored Bills
As a Senator, Nwoko has sponsored several bills focused on national development, security, education, and economic reform, including:
1. National Malaria Eradication and Prevention Bill – Aims to combat malaria in Nigeria through vaccine funding, environmental sanitation, and public health education.
2. Climate Change and Renewable Energy Development Bill – Advocates for policies addressing climate change and sustainable energy solutions.
3. Universal Basic Education Reform Bill – Seeks to enhance access to quality education through increased funding and infrastructure development.
4. Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Bill – Aims to support Nigerian youth through skill acquisition, startup funding, and mentorship.
5. Self-Defense and Firearm Ownership Regulation Bill – Advocates for regulated civilian firearm ownership in response to rising insecurity.
6. Diaspora Voting Rights Bill – Seeks to grant Nigerians living abroad the right to participate in national elections.
7. Waste Management and Malaria Eradication Agency Establishment Bill – Proposes the creation of a government agency dedicated to malaria eradication.
8. Nigerian Youth Entrepreneurship Programme Establishment Bill – Aims to foster entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth.
9. Electoral Courts Establishment and Jurisdiction Bill – Proposes the creation of specialized courts for electoral disputes.
Malaria Eradication Advocacy
Nwoko is a strong advocate for malaria eradication in Africa. He is the initiator of the Ned Nwoko Malaria Eradication Project.
In January 2020, he flagged off the Ned Nwoko Malaria Eradication campaign through a symbolic expedition to Antarctica, where he became the first Black African to visit the South Pole.
His foundation is funding malaria vaccine research through partnerships with African universities and research institutions. The initiative also promotes nationwide fumigation campaigns, environmental sanitation, and improved healthcare policies to combat malaria permanently.
Visit to the South Pole
In January 2020, Nwoko embarked on a historic expedition to Antarctica to raise awareness about malaria eradication.
At the Geographical South Pole, he hoisted the Nigerian flag, making Nigeria the 13th country to do so. His expedition emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to ratify the Antarctic Treaty to solidify Nigeria’s presence in global environmental conservation efforts.
Sports University
Nwoko is the founder of Sports University, located in Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State, the first sports university in sub-Saharan Africa.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) granted it an operational license in 2022. The university offers courses in sports science and other disciplines and is set to commence full academic activities soon.
Mount Ned Nwoko
Nwoko is the founder of Mount Ned Nwoko, a renowned tourism destination in Delta State. It is one of 21 officially recognized tourist sites by the Delta State Government.
The site features:
• A museum showcasing African history and culture.
• A farm, zoo, fishponds, and poultry.
• A 9-hole golf course designed for professional and recreational golfers.
Philanthropy
Nwoko is the founder of the Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation, dedicated to improving healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.
His philanthropic initiatives include:
• Malaria Eradication Project – A comprehensive effort to eliminate malaria in Africa.
• Scholarships for students in Nigerian universities.
• Infrastructure development in rural communities.
Business Ventures
Ned Nwoko is a successful entrepreneur with investments in real estate, agriculture, and tourism.
He owns the Mount Ned Nwoko Resort and has real estate projects across Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Awards and Recognitions
1. 2022: Social Impact Person of the Year – Leadership Newspaper
2. Award for Media Excellence and Innovation – Delta State University
3. Icon of Philanthropy Award – University of Nigeria, Nsukka
4. 2018: Africa Value Awards – Effective Leadership and Youth Empowerment
5. 2019: Peace Achievers Award
6. 2019: Prime Excellence Recognition Award – Man of the Year
7. 2019: Abuja AR Reporters Awards – Man of the Year
8. 2019: Suncity Champions of Democracy Award – Humanitarian Services
Personal Life
Nwoko is married to multiple wives, including Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, and has several children. His family life often attracts public interest due to his commitment to traditional values.