Joel Onowakpo Thomas, widely known as JOT, is a Nigerian chartered accountant, businessman, and politician. He secured the position as the senator-elect to represent Delta South senatorial district in the 10th assembly.
Notably, he served as the first executive chairman and the fifth chief executive of the Delta state Board of Internal Revenue, holding the position from July 24, 2009, to September 22, 2015.
Joel Onowakpo Thomas Biography
Joel Onowakpo Thomas, born on April 27, 1967, hails from Emede town in Isoko South L.G.A., Delta State, Nigeria. He is a married individual with three children.
His educational journey began at the State Primary School, Obrigbene, Bayelsa State, where he completed his primary education from 1975 to 1979.
Subsequently, he gained admission to Government Secondary School Ekeremore, also in Bayelsa State. His secondary education concluded at Emede Grammar School in 1984.
Following his schooling, Joel Onowakpo Thomas entered the workforce between 1985 and 1989. During this period, he took on various roles, including salesboy, accountant, clerk, and cashier at Okwegbe and Sons Ltd, Oleh, Delta State.
In 1990, he relocated to Lagos to initiate his professional career with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) under the Accounting Technician Scheme, obtaining membership in September 1991.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Joel pursued numerous local and international courses in management and sustainable development. His educational pursuits included programs at the University of Edinburgh Business School and Coventry University.
Joel Onowakpo Thomas – Biography
Career
Joel Onowakpo Thomas, known as JOT, boasts a diverse background that extends from his leadership in Elomaz Holding to his role as Vice-Chairman of Elomaz Nigeria Investment Limited.
His business ventures include Elomaz Nigeria Limited, Elomaz Mining and Exploration Limited, JOS, and Weimog Technologies Limited, a computer and telecommunications outfit.
Philanthropic Initiatives and Empowerment
Beyond his professional endeavors, Joel is a dedicated philanthropist. He founded the Ithihikpebe Campaign Organization, which focuses on empowering the less privileged through initiatives like free JAMB lectures, scholarships, and vocational training.
The organization evolved into the Elomaz Foundation, with a mission to provide micro-credit, educational resources, and starter packs for employment graduates.
Recognitions and Awards
Joel’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He received the Development in Nigeria Merit Award in 2004 and has continued to be recognized for his leadership and achievements.
His expertise in areas like taxation, technology, acquisitions, and sustainable management strategies is evident through numerous papers and presentations.
Local Governance and Taxation Leadership
Joel served as a Caretaker Chairman in Isoko South Delta State, earning recognition for his effective handling of local administrative issues.
His leadership skills led to appointments in various capacities, including as the Executive Chairman of the Board of Internal Revenue in Delta State.
Under his tenure, the Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) increased significantly from 1 billion to 5.74 billion monthly.
Federal Appointment and Revenue Milestones
Due to his remarkable achievements, Joel was appointed as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Coordinator in 2016.
He coordinated revenue efforts in Rivers, Edo, and Delta, contributing to the record-breaking 4.03 trillion in national revenue in 2017. His tenure with FIRS set the stage for his subsequent political endeavors.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Joel’s journey began as an Audit Clerk with Onothome Ofo Thirlwell and CO. in 1992. He became a qualified chartered accountant in 1994 and later pursued a Master’s Degree in Technology Management, completing it in 1999 at Ogun State University Agoiwoye.
His commitment to accountancy and community development earned him a place in the “Who is Who in the 21st Century 2nd edition” by the International Biographical Centre, Cambridge, England.
Net Worth
He is worth more or below, $200k.
How Old Is Joel Onowakpo Thomas?
He is currently at the age of 56 years old (as of 2023).
What Is Joel Onowakpo Thomas’s Date of Birth?
He was born on April 27, 1967 in his hometown.
Where Is Joel Onowakpo Thomas’s Place of Birth?
He was born in Emede town, Isoko South L.G.A. of Delta State, Nigeria.
What Is Joel Onowakpo Thomas’s Net Worth?
His net worth is estimated to be, $200k.
How Many Children Does Joel Onowakpo Thomas Have?
He has three children.
In Conclusion
Joel Onowakpo Thomas’s multifaceted career, from business leadership to philanthropy and governance, highlights a dedicated individual whose impact extends across various sectors.
