FCTA Appoints Hon. Jim Okolo as Chairman, Caretaker Committee of FCT Para-Volley Association
In a move that underscores its commitment to inclusive sports development, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has appointed Hon. Chief Dr. Jim Chimezie Okolo as Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the FCT Para-Volley Association. The appointment, effective from October 1, 2025, to April 31, 2026, was formally conveyed in a letter dated August […]
In a move that underscores its commitment to inclusive sports development, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has appointed Hon. Chief Dr. Jim Chimezie Okolo as Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the FCT Para-Volley Association.
The appointment, effective from October 1, 2025, to April 31, 2026, was formally conveyed in a letter dated August 29, 2025, and signed by Mr. Luka Istifanus, Director of Sports, FCT, on behalf of the Honourable Minister.
Dr. Okolo’s selection follows the dissolution of all FCT Sports Association Boards in October 2023 upon the expiration of their four-year tenure. To ensure continuity and effective administration, the Sports Department constituted interim committees to oversee the affairs of various associations pending the inauguration of new boards.
A seasoned administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Okolo brings a wealth of experience to the role. He is the Chairman and CEO of Jimez Petroleum Resources Limited, a company known for its impactful community development programs and youth-focused initiatives. He also leads the Jim Mezie Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Dr. Okolo’s influence extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. He serves as Nigeria Country Lead for Nouvelle Perspective Internationale (NPI), a United Nations–affiliated body focused on peace and sustainable development, and as West Africa Regional Coordinator for the Universal Migration Enlightenment Centre (UMEC), which advocates for safe migration and human rights.
In academia, he chairs the Governing Council of Bridget University, Mbaise, where he champions innovation and institutional growth. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria (CIPAN), reflecting his commitment to ethical leadership and governance reform.
His contributions to sports have earned him national recognition, including the Nigerian Soccer Ambassador Award and his appointment as National Patron of Miss Football Nigeria in 2024—testaments to his belief in sports as a vehicle for unity and empowerment.
Reacting to the appointment, Dr. Okolo expressed gratitude and a strong sense of purpose. “This is an opportunity to serve humanity through the power of sports,” he said. “I am committed to building a more inclusive and transparent structure for para-volleyball in the FCT, where athletes living with disabilities can thrive.”
The sporting community has welcomed the appointment with optimism, describing it as timely and visionary. Stakeholders praised Dr. Okolo’s unique ability to combine administrative rigor with compassion and innovation, expressing confidence that his leadership will elevate para-sports in the FCT to new heights.
As he assumes this new role, expectations are high that Hon. Jim Okolo will deliver leadership that reinforces Abuja’s status as a national hub for inclusive and progressive sports development.