Sharon Ikeazor

Sharon Olive Ikeazor (born August 28, 1961) is a Nigerian lawyer, politician, and management consultant. She has held prominent positions in the Nigerian government, including serving as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) and subsequently as the Minister of State for Environment. She is recognized for her legal career, public service, and advocacy for environmental sustainability and gender inclusion in governance.Early Life and Education Sharon Olive Ikeazor was born on August 28, 1961. She began her primary education at St. Mary's Convent School in Lagos before attending the Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha. She completed her GCE A' levels at the Godolphin School, Salisbury, England. Ikeazor pursued higher education in Nigeria, attending Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1981. She earned a Bachelor of Law degree (LL.B Hons.) from the University of Benin in 1984 and obtained her Certificate of Practice from the Nigerian Law School in 1985, qualifying her as a legal practitioner.Career Progression and Achievements With over 30 years of post-graduation experience, Ikeazor's career spans law, business consulting, and public service. Before entering politics, she was a legal representative for Aso Energy Resources, Ltd, Abuja, from 2008 to 2010. Her political and administrative career highlights include: * **Political Involvement:** Ikeazor was active in Nigerian politics, serving as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader and establishing the APC Young Women's Forum to mentor and sponsor young female politicians. In 2016, she emerged as the APC Senatorial Candidate for the Anambra Central Zone. * **Executive Secretary of PTAD (2016–2019):** From September 26, 2016, to August 20, 2019, Ikeazor served as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD). During her tenure, she oversaw the administration of pensions for defined benefit schemes. * **Minister of State for Environment (2019–2022):** On August 21, 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed her as the Minister of State for Environment, a role she held until July 6, 2022. In this position, she was a strong advocate for climate action and championed policies focused on environmental sustainability.Notable Recognition and Current Status For her distinguished service, Ikeazor was honored with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). She continues to be a prominent figure and advocate, leveraging her experience as a lawyer, politician, and social activist to promote the environment, women's rights, and youth inclusion in governance and climate initiatives.