Akolisa (Ako) Ufodike, a distinguished Nigerian-Canadian professor, finance expert, and public servant, has been honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service, governance, and diversity in Canada.
The medal, created to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 6, 2023, is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada at the national, provincial, or community level, or whose achievements have brought honor to the country.
Ufodike’s recognition highlights his remarkable impact in public administration, academia, and corporate governance. As Alberta’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Immigration, and Multiculturalism, he made history as the first Black-Albertan and the first Nigerian-Canadian to hold such a high-ranking government position. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing policies that promote economic growth, diversity, and inclusion.
Beyond his government service, Ufodike is a leading researcher on diversity in corporate governance. He founded the John Ware Institute, an organization dedicated to increasing Black representation in corporate boardrooms. His efforts have led to the placement of over 70 Black directors and a significant rise in the number of certified Black board members across Canada.
His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) Established Leader Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal.
In academia, Ufodike has played a key role in shaping public sector finance education. Before his appointment as Deputy Minister, he was a faculty member at York University, where he taught auditing and public finance. His research on public-private partnerships, accountability, and governance has been widely published and has influenced both policy and industry standards.
Reflecting on his latest honor, Ufodike expressed gratitude while acknowledging the emotional journey of the past year, including the recent loss of his father.
“Indeed, 2024 was a year full of blessings, and I have much to be thankful for,” he shared.
He also revealed that he had only recently discovered he had been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.
“Delayed blessings are now manifesting! And today, I am deeply humbled to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal,” he added.
The official investiture ceremony took place on March 3, 2025, at McDougall Centre, Government House, Calgary, with dignitaries and fellow honorees in attendance. The date was particularly meaningful for Ufodike, as it coincided with his daughter’s 16th birthday.
With this recognition, Ufodike joins an esteemed group of 474 recipients in Alberta, including former Premiers, Chief Justices, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and other notable individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada and beyond.
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