Currently serving as the Lead Environmental Safeguard Officer with the Rivers State COVID- 19 Action Recovery Stimulus (RIV-CARES) — a World Bank Project — she ensures environmental and social compliance, develops Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), and coordinates stakeholder engagement for sustainable project delivery.
Simultaneously, she heads the Gas Department of the Rivers State Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, where she oversees gas infrastructure development, supervises LPG facilities, and drives the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (CNGi) in Rivers State.
Her previous leadership roles include Head of Safety & Conflict Resolution, Head of Safety Unit, and Petroleum Engineer II at the same ministry, where she led safety campaigns, resolved community–operator disputes, and ensured compliance with DPR/NMDPRA standards. Earlier in her career, she served as Resident Engineer with the Rivers State Ministry of Works, supervising major construction projects such as the Eliozu Flyover and Abuja Bypass.
A passionate advocate for sustainable energy and peacebuilding, Dr. Owhonda holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources, Environmental Management, and Sustainable Development from the University of Port Harcourt, where she also earned her M.Sc., PGD, and B.Eng. degrees in related fields.
She is a Registered Engineer (COREN), Member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Fellow of the Institute for Crisis Resolution, Peace Building and Conciliation (FICRPC), and Peace Ambassador of the Global Forum for Peace, Justice, and Human Rights.
Dr. Owhonda has undertaken numerous professional trainings in environmental management, crisis response, conflict resolution, and safety leadership, including specialized World Bank environmental assessment programs. Her career reflects integrity, analytical excellence, and a strong commitment to sustainable resource management and community impact.
