By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Abuja, Nigeria — January 20, 2026
The World Humanity Commission (WHC) has announced the appointment of Ambassador Dr Richy Onolememen as High Commissioner for Africa and Special Representative of the Commission in Nigeria, following a comprehensive selection process that culminated in a high-level panel review held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
Amb Dr Richy Onolememen formally defended his application before the Commission’s selection panel, which comprised senior officials, policy experts, and a Special Envoy to the Presidency of the World Humanity Commission. The panel session formed a critical component of the Commission’s merit-based and transparent process for appointing senior leadership to advance its humanitarian and diplomatic mandate across Africa.
During the engagement, Amb Dr Richy Onolememen articulated a strategic vision focused on strengthening Africa’s voice within the global humanitarian architecture, deepening regional cooperation, and expanding the Commission’s operational impact in Nigeria. His presentation emphasised sustainable development, institutional partnerships, humanitarian coordination, and alignment with international best practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking on the appointment, the Special Envoy to the Presidency of the World Humanity Commission, Ambassador Chioma Lynda Onwuka, disclosed that the position attracted multiple applications from across the African continent. She noted that, following extensive deliberations by the Supreme Council under the Presidency, Amb Dr Richy Onolememen emerged as the most qualified and strategically aligned candidate for the dual roles.
Ambassador Onwuka explained that the dual appointment represents a deliberate strategic move by the Commission to reinforce Africa’s representation within global humanitarian decision-making while strengthening its engagement in Nigeria, one of the continent’s most influential nations.
In his new role as High Commissioner for Africa, Amb Dr Richy Onolememen will provide strategic leadership and policy direction for the Commission’s humanitarian, development, and advocacy initiatives across the continent. As Special Representative in Nigeria, he will serve as the principal liaison with government institutions, diplomatic missions, civil society organisations, and development partners to advance humanity-centred policies and impactful interventions.
The World Humanity Commission, which holds consultative status with the United Nations, reaffirmed its commitment to excellence, transparency, and global standards in leadership selection as it continues to promote human dignity, peace, and sustainable development worldwide.
The Commission reiterated its guiding principle: In all that we do, humanity comes first.