Chief (Barrister) Andrew Ovikuroma Oru is a distinguished Nigerian legal practitioner, management consultant, and business executive, widely respected for his exemplary leadership, professional excellence, and steadfast commitment to national development. With a career spanning several decades and cutting across multiple sectors, Chief Oru has built a legacy of impactful service, corporate innovation, and strategic advancement in areas critical to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
A consummate professional, Chief Oru has made notable contributions across diverse industries including real estate, mining, oil and gas, power and energy, telecommunications, security, and education. He is the Chairman of Thunderbird International Limited and President of Capstone Management Company, where he brings strategic insight and entrepreneurial acumen to the fore.
In the legal sphere, Chief Oru is celebrated for his expertise in corporate legal practice, as well as his passion for promoting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and conflict management. His commitment to legal excellence is further underscored by his involvement in professional bodies such as the Nigerian Bar Association and the Capital Market Solicitors’ Association.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Chief Oru has demonstrated exceptional devotion to public service, particularly through the University of Nigeria Alumni Association (UNAA). He served as Chairman of the Lagos Branch (2012–2013), National/Global President (2013–2017), and currently, Chairman of the Elders’ Advisory Committee (2019–present). His tenure as National President was transformational—he spearheaded the drafting and promulgation of the Association’s first Constitution in 2014, established international branches (notably in the UK and the US), and executed major infrastructural projects including the renovation of the Conference Centre at CEC, rewiring of the Odili Postgraduate Hall, and re-roofing of multiple hostels at the University of Nigeria.
Chief Oru’s contributions also include the remodeling of the University’s Main Entrance Gate on two occasions, chairing the fundraising and implementation committee for the 2016 West African University Games (WAUG), and constructing the current Alumni Relations Unit. Notably, he has financed the procurement of critical research equipment for the University, valued at hundreds of millions of naira.
His visionary leadership and patriotic service have earned him numerous prestigious accolades, including:
• Award of Ethical and Leadership Excellence in University Development and Alumni Affairs
• African International Achievers Merit Award for Excellence
• Pan African Legacy of Patriotism Award for Professional Integrity (2006)
• West African Patriotic Leadership Gold Award (2004)
• Diamond Award for National Development (2005)
• Distinguished Urhobo Personality of Inestimable Value to the Urhobo Nation (2012)
• Outstanding Urhobo Patriot Award (2013)
• Award for Excellence in Corporate Legal Practice (1997)
A Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, Chief Oru remains a beacon of integrity, vision, and service, whose unwavering dedication continues to inspire professionals, alumni, and community leaders across Nigeria and beyond.
