By Osaretyn Ero
Uyi Oduwa Malaka is currently Edo Sate Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism.
Though not a stranger within the corridors of power, Uyi Oduwa Malaka’s public service in the State began in 2016 as the Principal Private Secretary to Governor Godwin Obaseki.
She was also a Senior Special Assistant on Strategic Planning, Special Adviser on Strategic Planning and Programme Management, where she spare headed efforts at driving the State’s development agenda, promoting effective governance, and achieving Governor Obaseki’s priorities, specifically, improving the lives of Edo citizens.
Dr. Uyi Malaka reactivated and promoted the State’s cultural heritage and creative sector to its current level which is reflecting among Edo youths in film and music production, the global music reckoning with Edo-born REMA and SHALLIPOPI are some notable examples.
She equally made efforts aimed at advancing Edo sprawling arts, cultural and tourism landscape, with a focus on policy acceleration and strategic partnerships with both local and international organisations.
Uyi’s passion for Tourism has garnered for the State and herself numerous accolades including the online ATQ (Africa Travel Quarterly) award to Edo State as the Most Active Tourism State in Nigeria 2023 while she was listed among the Top 100 Tourism Personalities in Nigeria 2023.
In addition to her political and governmental roles, Dr. Uyi Oduwa Malaka is a qualified Economist. She is a passionate advocate for youth and women empowerment, spearheading various development initiatives leveraging her influence to champion policies and programmes that enhance the lives of young people and women across the State.
Uyi Malaka is currently a top-notch member of the Asue Ighodalo Governorship campaign team.
