Professor Ogechukwu Ukandu obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and completed his undergraduate education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; and Rivers State University. Presently, he serves as a lecturer and attained the rank of full professor in 2024. He has made significant contributions to over 50 scholarly works, which include nearly 100 peer-reviewed research articles. In addition, he has authored books and contributed to academic journals and edited collections. Professor Ogechukwu is a member of the Technical Publications Advisory Committee for the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), Chairman of the HGU, Texas, USA Alumni. He has occupied various elected roles, such as Delegate, Secretary, President-Elect, and President of the ASSP Nigeria Chapter. During his tenure as president, he effectively executed the ASSP global standard for the Professional Development Conference in the Nigeria chapter. The chapter received the Platinum award. He also chairs the PDC technical paper Reviewer Committee, and Education/Trainingcommittee for Nigeria chapter. He has participated as a committee member of Region IX SPY selection. He has won numerous awards including “100 Global Impact Personalities 2025 Award”, “Best OHS Manager of the Year”2025”, WISE award, among others. He is a certified Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) trainer, a registered teacher with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), and additionally, he is an engineer.
Professor Ogechukwu Ukandu is a passionate committed HSE professional with years of classroom and field experience. His professional journey encompasses Health, Safety, and Environmental aspects within the Oil and Gas sector, power generation sector, and academic institution, focusing on occupational health and safety management with unique outstanding performance. Ogechukwu is a researcher, author, and lecturer. He finds joy in collaboration and teamwork. His philosophy; practice what you teach and to cultivate a uniquely dedicated individual. This is where his strength and qualities are built. His passion for networking, traveling, mentoring, and reading books and journals on leadership and professional development conferences cannot be overemphasized. Ogechukwu is a dedicated professional ASSP member since 2008 and has shown great passion for the society mission, and vision. Throughout the years, he has actively participated in chapter, regional, and global activities, which have enhanced his understanding and commitment. My core ambition is to support the Region IX Leadership with my significant experience of working in teams large and small, and a proactive attitude to getting things done. If elected, I will assist the regional vice president in: 1. Providing quality leadership engagement, and membership programs 2. Promote Society engagement across the chapters 3. Represent Area two at regional and global meetings, and provide practical ideas that will boost the regional chapter membership growths and existing members’ dues renewal 4. Help mentor chapter leaders 5. Enhance HSE advocacy to effectively prevent incidents across various locations in the region. 6. Diligently monitor, implement, uphold, and support the primary responsibilities of the area two director responsibilities. I will invigorate member affection for professional certification through integrated value proposition, clear and specific pathways, recognition and celebration, community and peer support, among others. I will remain visible and celebrate the milestone achievements of our members in their organizations.