One of Nigeria’s most respected occupational safety and health professionals, Mercy Osato Omoifo Irefo, has officially concluded an outstanding three year tenure as Area 2 Director of Region IX of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), leaving behind a remarkable record of visionary leadership, regional collaboration and unwavering commitment to advancing the safety profession.
Widely celebrated for her passion for professional excellence, mentorship and service, Omoifo Irefo formally handed over the leadership of Area 2 during a colourful ceremony attended by regional executives, chapter presidents, past leaders, volunteers and safety professionals from across Region IX.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Omoifo Irefo reflected on the journey with gratitude, describing the opportunity to serve Region IX as one of the greatest privileges of her professional career.
“Today, I stand before you with a heart filled with gratitude as I formally hand over the responsibility of serving as Area 2 Director, Region IX after three fulfilling years of service. It has been one of the greatest honors of my professional journey to serve our Society, our region, and our members.”
“I was privileged to serve on both regional and Society committees, experiences that broadened my understanding of leadership and allowed me to contribute to initiatives that advanced not only Region IX but ASSP globally. Working with fellow regional leaders to facilitate sponsorship opportunities, advocate for our members during challenging economic times, and support chapters through periods of transition and crisis reminded me that leadership is ultimately about service, collaboration, and stewardship.”
She thanked the Region Vice Presidents, Area Directors, Chapter Presidents, chapter officers, volunteers and members for their commitment, saying their dedication made the achievements of the past three years possible.
Omoifo Irefo also acknowledged the support of the ASSP Society leadership, describing it as instrumental to advancing the safety profession across the region. She reserved special appreciation for her husband and children for their unwavering support, understanding and prayers throughout her tenure.
During the ceremony, she formally passed leadership to Ogechukwu Ukandu, expressing confidence in his ability to continue the region’s progress.
“Today, I have the privilege of passing the baton to Dr. Ogechukwu Ukandu, our incoming Area 2 Director. I do so with complete confidence that the region is in capable hands. Leadership is not about beginning a new story but continuing a shared vision.”
She encouraged the incoming leadership to strengthen collaboration among chapters, embrace innovation and continue promoting excellence in service to members and the safety profession.
Omoifo Irefo assumed office as ASSP Region IX Area 2 Director in July 2023 after her appointment was announced during the ASSP Nigeria Chapter handover ceremony in Abuja. In the role, she represented chapters across Africa and worked with the Regional Operating Committee to support chapter development, leadership succession, membership growth and professional advancement across Region IX.
Before taking up the regional assignment, Omoifo Irefo served as President of the ASSP Nigeria Chapter during the 2020 to 2021 chapter year. Her administration was widely recognised for sustaining chapter activities during the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding member engagement, promoting professional development and supporting the establishment of initiatives such as the chapter’s EHS e-library.
Throughout her leadership journey, she has remained an advocate for advancing occupational safety and health, mentoring safety professionals and strengthening collaboration within the global safety community. Her transition marks the end of her tenure as Area 2 Director but not her continued commitment to supporting ASSP and the growth of the safety profession.
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