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Charles Odii: A Biography
Charles Odii is a Nigerian politician and businessman who is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). He was appointed to this position by President Bola Tinubu on October 13, 2023.
Early Life and Education
Charles Odii was born into a humble family in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. He lost his father at a young age, and his mother struggled to raise him and his siblings.
Odii was a brilliant student from a young age. He attended the best primary and secondary schools in his village. He then passed the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination with flying colors and gained admission to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to study Accounting.
Odii graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1994.
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After graduating from the university, Odii worked as an accountant for a number of companies, including PricewaterhouseCoopers and KPMG. He also worked as a financial consultant for several years.
In 2011, Odii entered politics when he was elected to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly. He served in the House of Assembly for two terms, from 2011 to 2015 and from 2015 to 2019.
In 2019, Odii contested for the governorship of Ebonyi State but lost to David Umahi of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
In 2023, Odii was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the Chief Executive Officer of the Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
As CEO of SMEDAN, Odii is responsible for:
- Promoting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria
Providing financial and technical assistance to SMEs - Facilitating access to markets for SMEs
Advocating for the interests of SMEs
Odii is a strong advocate for SMEs and believes that they are the engine of economic growth in Nigeria. He is committed to helping SMEs succeed and to making Nigeria a more conducive environment for SMEs to operate in.
Charles Odii Leadership Style
Odii is known for his humble and approachable leadership style. He is also known for his commitment to transparency and accountability.
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Odii is a visionary leader who is passionate about helping SMEs succeed. He is also a man of integrity and commitment.
Odii is well-positioned to lead SMEDAN to new heights. He is committed to helping SMEs succeed and to making Nigeria a more conducive environment for SMEs to operate in.
Additional Information about Charles Odii family
- Odii is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
- He is married with children.
- He is a devout Christian.
- He is a philanthropist who has donated to several charities and educational institutions.
- He is a recipient of numerous awards and honors.
Quotes by Charles Odii
- “My mission as CEO of SMEDAN is to help SMEs succeed and to make Nigeria a more conducive environment for SMEs to operate in.”
- “I believe that SMEs are the engine of economic growth in Nigeria.”
- “I am committed to providing financial and technical assistance to SMEs, facilitating access to markets for SMEs, and advocating for the interests of SMEs.”
- “I am confident that, working together, we can create a Nigeria where SMEs thrive and where all Nigerians have the opportunity to succeed.”