Recognition of Community Advocacy

Human rights activist and Executive Director of BraveHeart Initiative (BHI), Chief Ms Priscilla Ikogheneone Usiobaifo, has been formally installed as the Iyin-Jamata of Uneme-Ekpedo. The title, which translates to “Mother of Elite Women,” was conferred in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Usiobaifo was installed as a palace chief on Saturday, July 25, 2026, marking a significant milestone in her career as a feminist advocate and community leader. The ceremony drew together local leaders and stakeholders to recognize her contributions to social development and human rights over the past twenty years.

Alignment with Local and Global Milestones

The conferment was held as part of a triple celebration, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the reign of His Royal Highness, Obabori, the Onose of Uneme-Ekpedo. It also featured prominently in the 2026 Ekpedo Day celebrations, highlighting the community's cultural heritage and commitment to progress.

Significantly, the installation coincided with the commemoration of the International Day for Girls and Women of African Descent. This global backdrop underscored Usiobaifo’s long-standing commitment to child rights advocacy, sexual and reproductive health, and the empowerment of rural women across the region.

Impact of the BraveHeart Initiative

Usiobaifo, the daughter of S.O and H.F Usiobaifo of Uneme-Nekhua, is the founder and Executive Director of BraveHeart Initiative (BHI). The feminist organization is dedicated to promoting the sexual and reproductive health of young people and advancing women’s rights in rural Nigeria.

Through BHI, she has championed the fight against sexual violence and advocated against the structural factors that fuel abuses against women and girls. The organization has spent nearly two decades promoting women’s empowerment and participating in decisions that influence political, legal, and corporate leadership.

Commitment to Continued Service

Speaking on her installation, Usiobaifo expressed gratitude to the monarch and the traditional council for the honor. She described the title as a significant recognition of her service to women and community development, emphasizing the importance of the role for younger generations.

As a young, unmarried woman, I am indeed awed that I could be titled as Iyin-Jamata, which is the Mother of Elite Women. I accept this chieftaincy title in good faith and pray for God's wisdom and grace. I congratulate his Royal Highness and all citizens of Uneme-Ekpedo as we celebrate EKPEDO DAY 2026.

— Chief Ms Priscilla Ikogheneone Usiobaifo, Executive Director, BraveHeart Initiative

The BraveHeart Initiative team also released a statement celebrating the development, stressing the need for sustained investment in the health, education, and wellbeing of African girls and women.

African girls and women are the voices of transformation and we must commit to investing in their health, education, wellbeing, and development.

— Spokesperson, BraveHeart Initiative