Mrs. Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya, popularly known as Tabitha, is a distinguished media professional, communications expert, entrepreneur, and politician whose career spans media, public relations, human resource management, youth development, and public service.
Born on October 1, 1985, Mrs Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya hails from Ibom, Arochukwu in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.
Educational Background
Mrs. Ogbonnaya attended National College, Gbagada, Lagos, for her Senior Secondary School education where she obtained her West African Examination Council as well National Examination Council results .
Driven by a passion for knowledge and professional development, she proceeded to the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where she studied Archaeology and Tourism. She further expanded her academic horizons at Anambra State University (now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University) where she studied Political Science, and later attended Fernwood Business College, Braamfontein, South Africa, where she earned qualifications in Human Resource Management. In 2018 , she attended the Al Methani Media Academy Course in Dubai where she majored in Presentation and Negotiation Skills.
Professional Career
Upon completing her studies, Mrs. Ogbonnaya began her professional career with the Coscharis Group, serving in the Customer Relations and Communications Department. During her tenure, she worked across several strategic units, including:
* Rolls-Royce Africa Department
* Market Share and Analysis Department
* Ford Nigeria After-Sales Department
She subsequently joined the CIG Group, owners of GAC Motors Nigeria, where she served in the Customer Relations Unit, further strengthening her expertise in customer engagement, corporate communications, and stakeholder management.
An accomplished former runway model, Mrs. Ogbonnaya was among the pioneer models featured on the award-winning Nigerian television fashion platform. Her passion for media and communications eventually led her into journalism and broadcasting.
She joined Mindsgate Media Group as a Senior Political Correspondent, where she built a reputation for insightful political reporting and public affairs analysis. With numerous professional certifications in media and communications.
For Four years , She served as the Head of News and Current Affairs at 98.9 Kiss FM Lagos, one of Nigeria’s leading radio stations.
Entrepreneurship and Media Development
Mrs. Ogbonnaya is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mandiba Media Group, a full-service 360-degree media production company. Through this platform, she has contributed significantly to media innovation and content development.
She is also the founder of Orugo TV, a digital platform dedicated to promoting contemporary Igbo culture, lifestyle, and heritage to a global audience.
Youth Empowerment and Humanitarian Service
Known for her selflessness and commitment to human development, qualities that inspired the nickname “Tabitha,” Mrs. Ogbonnaya has consistently invested in youth empowerment and capacity building.
She is the founder of the annual “Rediscover Yourself Media Training”, a free five-day mentorship, training, and empowerment programme designed to equip young people with practical media and communication skills. Through this initiative, she has trained and empowered over 100 youths annually, helping many build sustainable careers in the media industry.
Political Journey
A passionate advocate for good governance and grassroots development, Mrs. Ogbonnaya has always maintained a strong interest in politics and public service.
In 2022 , following her passion for women inclusion and development, she was appointed the first ever Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Gender Matters .
She hosted the first ever World Gender Equality day in the state celebrating and appreciating men and women who had contributed to women development in Abia State.
Although short lived, experience provided valuable political exposure and strengthened her commitment to community , women development and democratic participation.
Her political aspiration to represent the good people of Arochukwu is the Abia state assembly is driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of Arochukwu, Abia State, and Nigeria at large.
Personal Life
Mrs. Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya is happily married to Mazi G. U. Ogbonnaya-Akpo for over 17 years. Their union is blessed with two children, Usonwa Ogbonnaya and Usonwanne Ogbonnaya.
A dedicated professional, entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader, Mrs. Ogbonnaya remains committed to empowering people, promoting media excellence, and contributing to sustainable social and political development.
Her ambition is one that is stamped not just on her being a strong Voice but a great performer in every area she has found herself.
Mrs Ogbonnaya is running for the Abia state House of Assembly to represent the Arochukwu State Constituency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) .
