Autobiography of Odion Frank Rhapsody (AKA OKPIA)

Odion Frank Rhapsody Okpia (popularly known as Rhapsody) was born in 1978 in Ekpon, a town in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, into the family of the late Mr. Odion and Mrs. Uwan Odion. His mother was affectionately known throughout the community as "Akamu na Akara" because of her industriousness, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit. She left behind a remarkable legacy of compassion and selfless service. From his parents, Odion inherited the enduring values of integrity, diligence, resilience, humility, and service to humanity, which continue to shape his personal life, leadership philosophy, and commitment to community development. He hails from Ogbe Quarters, Ekpon, Edo State.

Educational Background

Odion began his primary education at Central Primary School, Ekpon, where he studied from 1989 to 1994. Upon completing his primary education, he gained admission to Ekpon Grammar School in 1994. Seeking broader academic opportunities, he later transferred to Ika Grammar School before completing his secondary education at Iru Grammar School, Iru-Abudu, Edo State, where he obtained the Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) in 2000.

Driven by a passion for learning and information management, he proceeded to Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Library and Information Science between 2004 and 2008. During his undergraduate years, he distinguished himself through exemplary leadership and academic excellence. He was elected President of the Department of Library and Information Science, where he promoted students' welfare, unity, and academic development. He was also an active member of Christ Embassy, reflecting his enduring commitment to faith, moral values, and community service.

In pursuit of international exposure and advanced managerial competence, Odion enrolled at Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, where he studied International Business Management from 2025 to 2026. During his postgraduate studies, he was elected Class Representative, once again demonstrating his leadership abilities, collaborative spirit, and dedication to representing the interests of his colleagues.

National Youth Service and Professional Career

Following his university education, Odion participated in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the 2011/2012 service year. During his service, he was elected Chief Editorial Director of the NYSC Newsletter. In this capacity, he coordinated the production of official publications, promoted effective communication, and contributed significantly to fostering unity, information sharing, and professional excellence among corps members.

After completing the National Youth Service Corps programme, he joined Sterling Bank Plc, where he served as a Customer Acquisition Officer from 2013 to 2021. He later rose to the position of Team Leader, leading marketing initiatives and customer relationship strategies. His experience in the banking sector strengthened his understanding of customer service, leadership, teamwork, and people-centred organisational management.

Humanitarian Service and Leadership

Beyond academia and professional practice, Odion has established himself as a humanitarian, entrepreneur, and community leader. In the United Kingdom, he has consistently provided accommodation and practical support to newly arrived international students, particularly those experiencing temporary hardship, unemployment, or housing challenges. Through these humanitarian efforts, many newcomers have successfully settled, secured employment, and integrated into their new communities. His generosity and willingness to support others have earned him widespread admiration and appreciation.

His passion for humanitarian service culminated in the establishment of ESPPM Obulu Foundation International, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting social welfare, community development, youth and women empowerment, educational support, poverty alleviation, and assistance to vulnerable members of society. Through the Foundation, he has mobilised individuals and resources to improve lives, inspire hope, and strengthen communities.

Odion is widely recognised as a people-oriented, people-centred, and people-focused leader. His leadership philosophy is founded on integrity, accountability, transparency, inclusiveness, compassion, and selfless service. Throughout his academic, professional, entrepreneurial, and humanitarian endeavours, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

Political Aspiration

Inspired by the conviction that public office provides a broader platform for sustainable societal transformation, Odion Frank Rhapsody Okpia (AKA Rhapsody) is aspiring to represent Igueben Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly under the platform of the Labour Party.

If entrusted with the mandate of the people, he is committed to providing responsive, accountable, and effective representation by prioritising quality education, youth and women empowerment, employment creation, agricultural development, healthcare, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and transparent governance. His vision is to ensure equitable development across all communities within Igueben Constituency while creating sustainable opportunities for economic growth and social progress.

Conclusion

The life of Odion Frank Rhapsody Okpia reflects a remarkable blend of scholarship, visionary leadership, humanitarian service, entrepreneurial excellence, and unwavering dedication to the common good. His aspiration is to build a society where leadership is measured not by privilege or personal gain, but by service, accountability, and the positive impact it has on the lives of the people.

Guiding Philosophy

"Humanity First."

Odion Frank Rhapsody Okpia believes that the highest calling of leadership is to serve humanity with integrity, compassion, and excellence. His vision is to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and progressive Igueben Constituency where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed and every voice is heard.